Integrated land administration in Australia: the need to align ICT strategies and operations

A modern Land Administration System consists of four key functions: land tenure, land valuation, land use and landdevelopment. The integration of these functions and associated land information are essential if we are to achievesustainability objectives and a more efficient property development process. Historically many countries have dividedup their key functions; the advent of information and communication technologies [ICT] offered the possibility ofintegration.Current research suggests that land administration functions have resisted integration, despite technologicaladvancements. This paper analyses such findings by considering the land administration functions of Victoria, WesternAustralia and New South Wales. It considers each state'sspatial-mapping and registry functions at a strategic andoperational level. Particular attention has been given to ICT policy and operations. The study suggests that many factorshave obstructed integration, including historical backgrounds, politics and disparate organizational cultures have allplayed a role. Another important factor has been the failure to align the ICT strategies and operations of the differentfunctions: land registries have tended to view technology as supporting core operations rather than core strategy.Conversely, spatial-mapping units see ICT as fundamental to operations and strategy: not only has ICT enhancedtraditional practice, but it has also allowed for the creation of new products and services. It is argued that in order toachieve further integration, Land Administration functions must align their perception and use of ICT. Sharedleadership, integrated ICT infrastructures and government mandates will assist this alignment.September 14-16 200