Local government and the Internet.

The internet is a global network of computers linked by telecommunications--in essence, a network of computer networks. It has evolved through collaboration and cooperation between network owners around the world. It is not centralised, so common standards, rules and protocols have been agreed to and adopted by all users. It does not matter if you use an IBM compatible personal computer, Apple Macintosh or a computer running Unix. The many different types of computers are all able to access and use the internet.

The internet is a new form of communication, advertising, marketing and publishing. It is the source of a vast amount of information and is a tool that enables efficient exchanges of information. Using the internet and electronic mail, delivery of correspondence is almost instantaneous.

Different ways of using the internet have progressively developed. The internet's popularity today can be attributed to the easy access offered by the world wide web (www). Using web browser programs such as Netscape and Mosaic, it is easy to find information and also make information available to others using the web.

Many new computers these days come `internet ready'--simply plug them in and you are connected. From a survey conducted of internet providers, it appears that some 4,000 people are already using the internet in the Northern Territory. This number is growing at a rate of approximately ten per cent per month.

People with access to the internet can

* search for information

* provide information to others

* receive regular news services

* communicate with other people with access to the internet

* join discussion groups on almost any topic

* access software of various types and have it installed on their own computer

Why the internet?

Use of the internet by local government authorities has been initiated for a number of different reasons. As the City of Alexandria in the US has noted

the internet has the potential to change

the way local governments interact with

their citizens... (and) will make

government more efficient, more

relevant and more responsive[1]

Reasons why the internet is being used in Australia vary from one authority to the next.

It is seen as a valuable marketing tool for the specific local government area. For the Ipswich City Council (Qld), the council wished to promote an information led economic recovery. Its mission statement and objectives are based on a number of assumptions that emphasise the role of information technology and telecommunications.[2]

As part of a computing upgrade at the East Torrens District Council (SA), the internet was used as a tool to allow staff to have after hours access from home. This access could have been achieved by the use of modems and staff dialling in direct to the system. The internet option was chosen as it was faster, allowed greater access, was easier to use, provided access anywhere in the world and also did everything that dial up access could do.

Many local government authorities use the internet as a method of disseminating information about their organisation and its services. The Hurstville City Council (NSW) wanted to provide information in an electronic format. It had started with a bulletin board and then moved on to the internet as it offered greater public access.

The Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne sees the internet as a tool of democracy. It allows people `to have their say'.

In Newcastle (NSW), the City Council's museum had created a database of its resources that it wished to make more broadly available. This has been achieved by use of the internet.

The Nillumbuk Shire Council (Vic) saw the expanding use made of the internet and thought that it was important for it to establish a presence. It regarded it as an alternative means of disseminating information to the local community and as a marketing tool with a much wider audience.

Allowing aldermen and councillors to dial in to check council meeting agendas, minutes of council meetings and easily communicate with other aldermen is one of the aims of the Hobart City Council. While online, aldermen will also be able to research all relevant council material.[3]

Regardless as to why the internet was implemented, there have been positive benefits to local government authorities which have started to use it as a tool.

Benefits to local government

Numerous government authorities throughout the world are using the internet as a tool to enhance communication and business practices. Feedback from elected members, staff and the community has been positive and encouraging. Use of the internet by local government is growing and becoming more prevalent.

Documents can be transmitted electronically at minimal cost. This can replace huge packages of paper being sent via the mail system or courier. Electronic dissemination of business papers to elected members is timely and significantly reduces the amount of paper used.

The cost of storage is reduced when information is stored electronically. It is also far easier to search electronic databases than hardcopy equivalents.

Ready communication with local government associations, other councils, regional local government groups, other spheres of government, business and the community are both possible and easy. Ongoing dialogues are easily carried out through electronic mail and document delivery. Distance need no longer be a barrier to communication between individuals.

Through the use of electronic discussion groups, it is easy to set up `postal' networks where members can communicate to the group as a whole. A single message is posted electronically to the group, and all members will each individually receive the message. Replies can then be sent to either the whole group, individuals or the original author.

Electronic data exchanges and electronic funds transfers are now common business practices; the paperless exchange `is a proven way to cut administrative expense'.[4]

Through the internet, it is now possible to access information that was previously not readily available. The best practices of city governments[5] is one such electronic document that could be used by local governments all over the world. Information on the internet as well as being made available locally is accessible to internet users worldwide. The internet provides local government with an opportunity to disseminate information on a much larger scale, while reducing printing and mailing costs.

The internet also opens up some interesting ways of publicising events in the community and of getting information to the public without having to worry about deadlines for mailings or for the print media. No longer will there be concerns about whether the media will publish it in the form the local government authority prefers.[6]

The provision of information on the internet can be used as a promotional focus. The local government authority can establish a presence in the electronic global village. At the local level, copies of web pages can be loaded onto personal computers or laptops and used by themselves.

Miles Fidelman, the President of the US Center for Civic Networking points out that if a municipality keeps documents and data in online form, it can easily provide access via the internet and through public terminals, in places such as libraries. This can improve service to residents while reducing demands on staff time in answering queries.[7]

Through the mounting of community based information on the internet, the Hurstville City Council (NSW) has strengthened its ties with community groups.

Benefits to the community

The internet is a way of effectively distributing information about local government to residents and anyone who may be interested.[8] Residents who have access through the internet to their local government authorities have been very positive in their reactions to this service. Some local government staff have expressed surprise at just how many residents have their own computers at home.

It is hard to gain usage statistics, as most local government web sites do not include web use counters. However, the Hurstville City Council did note that its information was accessed 2,000 times in the first half hour of its site being made publicly available. Global Info-Links averages 10,000 `hits' per week, while the Nillumbuk Shire Council is pleased with its 6,000 visits per month.

The internet is available 24 hours per day. For the public, this means that they can access local government information and services when required, at their convenience. It is also totally confidential as users are not identified.

Local government authorities could be encouraging community consultation and involvement in its activities and decisions. This can be achieved through use of the internet. Research by the City of San Carlos in the US discovered that many of the people who interacted with the city in this way had never contacted it in the past.[9]

Applications like electronic mail and online group discussions can bring people together in ways never before possible. This is by no means a replacement for face to face interaction although it can act as a social lifeline for the elderly and other people with limited mobility. It is an important supplement to in person contact, in an age when hectic lifestyles make it difficult to schedule meetings and social gatherings.[10]

Internet clients of local government can also be given training and support to assist in their internet usage. The District Council of East Torrens organises a free internet support group which has quarterly meetings. Guest speakers are arranged and discussions focus on the users' needs.

Introductory internet awareness sessions are held regularly by Ipswich's Global Info-Links team. These sessions aim to demystify the internet and explain its different uses and functions.

How is the internet being used?

The world wide web

The world wide web, commonly referred to as the `web', is an internet application which allows users easy direct access to documents. A graphical` point and click' interface is used and `pages' of information are stored on a web server. These pages can include text, photographs, videos, pictures, charts, animations and sound. The initial page of any site is referred to as the home page, which is like the table of contents in a book. From this home page, other pages are described and accessed if required. Hypertext links enable users to jump almost immediately from one document to another. Information can be located through the use of one of the many available, catalogues and search engines.

There is a wide variety in the content of pages mounted by local government. Information includes services and facilities provided by the local government, community information and a profile of the local government area. Some sites, like the City of Canterbury (NSW), can be viewed in languages other than English. The information listed below highlights all the different topics that may be found on local government web pages.

Local government information on the web

* Message from the chairperson 

* Profiles and photographs of elected members and candidates for election

* Details on how, where and when to vote

* Election results

* Description of local government area and ward boundaries

* Maps of area and ward boundaries

* Details about meetings:

dates

minutes

business papers

agendas

copy of resolutions made

* Description of committees and their function

* Copies, descriptions and histories of official symbols:

coat of arms 

logo

mottoes

mayoral robes 

* Message from the elected chairperson:

read the written version

listen to the recording

* Message from the chief executive officer

* Statistics about the organisation and its

services

* Contact details for the organisation:

location(s)

postal address

telephone and facsimile numbers

email address(es)

after hours emergency phone

numbers

* Vision and mission statements

* Ethos and value statements

* Aims and objectives

* Policy statements and documents

* Strategic planning and corporate plan

* Organisational structure

* Profiles of senior staff

* Directory of key staff

* Overviews of departments:

functions

services

* Copies of laws, bylaws and regulations

* Updates on what is happening within the organisation:

restructuring

upgrades

* Manuals and protocols:

disaster management

customer service

community consultation

international delegations

* Budget details

* Details of grants available to the community

* Descriptions of special projects being undertaken

* Tender details and specifications

* Outline of major works program 

* Environmental programs

* Briefs about road works in progress

* Details about permit requirements

* Online application forms for the submission of permits

* Online problem report forms

* Graffiti removal request form

* Descriptions of facilities and their availability:

parks and reserves

recreation areas

libraries

waste recycling

parking

* Maps of features within local government area:

parking areas

bicycle paths 

* Email to the authority and elected members

* History and background of the local government authority

* Excerpts from archival records

* A copy of newsletters, both current issues and back copies

* Annual reports

* Planning reports, studies and discussion papers

* Research documents

* Details about affiliations with other organisations or areas:

sister cities

* Questionnaires and email for gaining feedback from the community on specific programs

* Summary of responses given by residents on specific topics

* News updates

* Press releases and announcements

* Job vacancies

* Volunteer opportunities within the authority

* Job and volunteer interest registration form

* Guest book for recording details about web site visitors

* Comments and feedback forms

* Disclaimer and copyright notices

* Credits and acknowledgments

Community information on the web

* Calendar of events and community diary

* Public notices and local news

* Details about local organisations, groups, societies and business

* Employment, training and job opportunities

* Volunteering opportunities within community organisations

* Recreation guide

* Services for specific client groups or needs:

support services 

family and children

youth

aged

disabled

ethnic

* Links to other web pages:

businesses and organisations in the

local government area

other local government authorities

government information

information likely to be of use to

residents

* Legal and consumer information

* Children's activity, education and recreation pages

* Safety tips for coping with disasters common in the area

* Notes, advice and warnings about the internet

* Citizen's handbook

* Home pages of residents

Area information on the web

* Maps, including interactive maps with hypertext links to place descriptions and appropriate home pages

* Brief history

* Description and photographs

* Visitor information

* Accommodation

* Hospitality

* Entertainment

* Nightlife 

* Art galleries

* Museums

* Real estate

* Performing arts

* Sports

* Recreation

* Tourist attractions 

* Tours and walks

* Weather forecast and conditions

* Local time

* Statistics for the area including:

population profiles

employment figures

economic indicators 

local tax rates

* Basic details about facilities and utilities:

industries

major employers contact details

transport options

communications

education facilities

hospitals and health care

recreation

media

places of worship

* Shopping

* Business development resources

* Environment

* Biographies of local identities

* Fact of the week

Email

Electronic mail is an almost instantaneous method of personal communication. Messages can be sent to one person or to many people, at the same time and can be easily forwarded on, replied to and saved for future reference.

Email can be likened to the use of post office boxes. Each person with an email address has a post box at the electronic post office. The first part of the email address is the person's box identifier. This is followed by an @ and then the address of the post office. For example [e-mail] means that a user by the name of `dplis' has a post office at the d130 computer which belongs to the Access One network in Australia.

Email is a wonderful communication tool for busy people. No more playing `telephone tag' trying to catch up with someone. Discussions through email are timely and cost efficient.

Discussion groups or listservs use email to deliver messages to each other. A message to the group is sent to a `central' post box. From here it is automatically sent to each member of the discussion group. If required the message can first be checked for appropriateness by a moderator before broader distribution. Members of the group can discuss issues, ask questions and notify each other of items of interest.

Getting connected

The appropriate equipment and programs need to be acquired to establish a connection to the internet. Once this occurs, access through a single link can be extended if required across a network to service multiple users.

Equipment

To use the internet, the following five items are needed.[11]

1 A computer

2 A modem or other telecommunications device that allows your computer to send information down the phone line. Modems are categorised by the amount of information that can be sent. 14,400 bits per second would today be a basic model, with a speed of 28,800 being better value. Modems offering speeds of up to 33,600 bits per second are also available

3 A phone line. This can be a normal telephone line, an ISDN line or a dedicated phone link to another computer. Use of a phone extension is normally not suitable. A separate line is required

4 Communications software that converts information into a form that can be both sent and read by your computer

5 Access to another computer that is already connected to the internet. This can be accomplished through the use of a direct connection or through an internet service provider (ISP)

ISP vs direct connection

When deciding how connection to the internet should be achieved, the following points should be considered.

* How much usage by employees and elected members is anticipated?

* What sort of access is required? Irregular, semipermanent or permanent?

* What services are offered?

* What software is supplied? Is this software licensed or made available on a shareware basis where you have a trial period and then pay a licensing fee?

* At what speed will the connection run?

* If dial up access is used, are calls free, local or STD?

* What kind of help and support is offered? Is prompt, efficient service available whenever problems arise? Are support calls free, local or STD?

* Will connection to the internet be available whenever it is required?

* How much will it cost? Registration, access, usage and support may all incur charges[12]

* How much will a web site cost to mount?

* Who will prepare the web site?

* Who will be permitted to maintain and update it? What procedures will this happen?

* What name will the web site have? Will it be logical like www.council.nt.gov.au or generic

The answers to these questions will determine how access to the internet is best achieved.

Joining an internet service provider (ISP) is recommended as an economical means of gaining internet access. Miles Fidelman recommends that internet connection should be through a commercial vendor unless a large computer centre is maintained.[13] Telstra comments in its notes that Telstra internet (using a direct connection)

appeals to those customers with upwards

of 100 hours per month of usage, or

organisations who wish to publish

material on the internet with their own

world wide web server. Organisations

wanting to use Telstra internet will need

access to information technology

specialists[14]

This is because Telstra does not provide a consultancy service.

Security issues

Physical security is one way of ensuring that the internet cannot corrupt your own files. Computers accessing the internet can be physically separated from other networked computers. If information is required from the internet, then download it, check it for viruses and then transfer it to the council system. Being physically isolated, it is also impossible for external hackers to enter the system.

There are many types and methods of security installation. Costs range from thousands to a few hundred dollars.[15] Network servers can be effectively protected with physical firewalls. These are normally routers which function as gateways, controlling electronic traffic both in and out of the network to the internet. Software protection can be based on processing permissions, where the system itself can detect and prevent activities likely to breach security. The use of different network protocols used by the network and the internet server also helps ensure adequate security.

Encryption systems are also available to ensure the privacy of documents travelling across the internet. Confidential documents can be encoded by the sender and decoded through the use of a `key' when received by the authorised recipient.

Much publicity has been given to recent security breeches on the internet. At the present time, it is not recommended that credit card details be sent across the internet. Mastercard and Visa are currently testing secure electronic transactions (Set). These will use a combination of a digital certificate and encryption. The protocols will be made available for any vendor that wishes to use it. It is hoped that Set will become the standard for electronic transactions, replacing the many proprietary systems that currently exist.[16] When Set is in place, credit transactions across the internet will become commonplace.

Setting up your own web site

Once the decision is made to put information on the internet, the organisation must address the following points:

* What is the purpose in providing information on the internet?

* Who is the target audience?

* What staff and financial resources are available? Both initial and ongoing costs need to be considered.

* What information is to be included?

* Who is going to write the information?

* Who is going to format the information and create the world wide web pages?

* Who is going to check the information?

* Who is going to ensure that the information is regularly checked and updated?

Information sources

The purpose in using the internet will determine what information is required for publishing electronically. Each department within the local government authority is normally responsible for providing relevant and accurate information. This information can come from a variety of sources. As the internet is a new publishing medium, a lot of information is specifically written for it. In some cases, printed information is rewritten and then electronically published. Copies of printed newsletters, manuals, reports, leaflets and so on have also been republished in an electronic format.

Creating the world wide web pages

Anyone with a sound knowledge of computers can present information on the internet. The files accessed through the world wide web are essentially text files with embedded code. The code commands used are based on html--hypertext markup language. Html is a tool to create web documents. Files can be initially created using a word processor such as WordPerfect or Word. The html code can be inserted either using an html program or manually. Regardless of the method used, the coding is time consuming and must be carefully undertaken. Many books and programmes have been created to help guide users in creating html documents themselves.

The quality of web pages varies considerably in content, presentation, structure and design. Like desktop publishing, the results vary from amateurish text based documents to very professional multimedia presentations. Web documents can be created inhouse or a specialist internet company can be used. Many internet service providers have their own experts while organisations such as Professional Interactive[17] are independent consultants.

The following hints and tips will assist in designing good web pages.

* Information should be relevant, accurate and up to date

* All pages need to include a clear indication of the web site to which they belong. Users may access pages directly without coming in through the home page. To assist users navigating through the web site, include a link to the home page on all pages[18]

* Plan your web site on paper before any construction is started

* Make directory and file names self explanatory. The file structure should be logical and allow for expansion

* All critical content and navigation options should be on the top part of the page. Investigation has revealed that only ten per cent of users scroll beyond the information that is visible on the screen when a page first comes up[19]

* Whatever the structure of your web pages, you need to give readers an idea of what it is, where they are and where they can go to next[20]

* Create a consistent look and `feel' for the web which is consistent with the organisation's corporate image and publication guidelines[21]

* Separate information into manageable page sized chunks

* Keep information and links relevant.[22] Links to other documents must be accurate and working. As a user, it is very frustrating to have an error message returned instead of the requested information

* Consider your users at all times. Make them feel comfortable with your service and put them in control[23]

* Keep text to a minimum, users do not want to read! Reading speeds are more than twenty five per cent slower from computer screens than from paper, so this means that what is presented on the screen should be fifty per cent less than that presented in a paper document. Users recklessly skip over any text that they deem to be fluff eg welcome messages or introductory paragraphs[24]

* Minimise the size of files that need to be accessed. The larger the file, the slower it will be received by the user. If the receipt time is too long, the user may simply give up trying to access the information[25]

* Have one advertised home page address which is unchanging. From the home page, the user can then be directed to more specific pages[26]

* Make sure that someone is clearly responsible for each document and then label the document with the contact details of that person. If required, the email address of a `web master' can be given as well

* List everything, even if no further information on it is available. This will ensure, that a complete picture of your organisation is given

* Include a `what's new' page or some such feature to alert users to new features of information[27]

Checking the final product

Before publicly releasing your information on the web, check that the designed pages accomplish the stated purpose of mounting information on the internet and meets the objectives for its intended audience.[28] Also, check that the presentation is functionally operational by testing on at least two different web browsers.

The web pages are a representation of the organisation. It is important that information and presentation are checked to ensure that such pages are appropriate and suitably presented. For many local government authorities, the chief executive officer monitors the site. In others, it is the management team comprising department managers. In large organisations such as the Melbourne City Council, a committee with representation from each department was created to oversee the development of the web site.

The General Manager of the Hurstville City Council maintains control of its world wide web site because of the specific image that was required. Hurstville wants to ensure that the site represents Hurstville as a place, with the council as an important stakeholder. Council's component emphasises the corporate image rather than sectional viewpoints.

Public access

Now that the web site is ready for public access its availability needs to be advertised. Tell your local community all about this service. Include email and home page addresses with the council address and phone numbers. This may mean that letterhead, business cards and publications will all need to be updated.

Use your web pages as a promotional focus. Load your pages onto a personal computer or a laptop and take it to community events. Show people what it is all about. Set up displays, send out press releases, do whatever it takes to get people interested.

The online community also needs to be alerted to the existence of your site. Send an email message to as many different search engines and catalogues as possible. There are many web sites[29] that have the appropriate email and submit forms. The Oregon State University web site also offers a useful guide to web site promotion.[30]

Maintenance

The internet is a dynamic tool, so it is important that time is spent in regularly checking the site for accuracy. Staff from many local government authorities are concerned that they do not spend enough time checking their web site. If information is going to be made available electronically, a commitment must be made to keep it current and to add material regularly.

The web site needs to be monitored and updated on a regular basis. The nature of the information presented should determine how often such work is required. If the information is fairly static, for example, fact sheets, then quarterly checks and revisions would be appropriate. Ten to fifteen minute weekly or fortnightly checks are required when information is constantly changing and requiring updating.

To assist users in assessing the relevance and accuracy of information contained on the web site, include the date when the information was mounted. A notice advising of the date that the site was last updated or checked is also a good idea.

The experience of the Ipswich City Council shows that maintenance schedules are rarely adhered to. Unless staff see the relevance and value in maintaining a web site, tasks such as checking and updating will be continually deferred. Use of the council web site as part of their day to day work will make it more relevant to staff.

The person who checks web material, whether it is new or existing, is determined by what is being checked. Does the one person check it for both typographical and grammatical errors, as well as presentation style and accuracy? In most local government authorities, the department that provided the information is responsible for ensuring that it is accurate and up to date.

Yearly rewrites are recommended by people who have had information mounted on the internet for some time. The internet is constantly developing and what may have been a good presentation twelve months ago could now appear dated. Changing styles and information also maintains interest in the site, users will visit over a period of time to keep up with the latest. The Hurstville City Council is preparing to do a total update of its web site which was first made available in August 1995. Its general manager estimates that 200 hours will be required for this revision.

Copyright

All material available on the internet is copyright, unless a notice states otherwise. Copyright protection is automatically invoked as soon as material is published, so a formal copyright notice is not required.

Users should, however, be reminded about the appropriate use of each web site. If your organisation wants its information to be freely copied then this should be stated. Perhaps acknowledgments need to be made, wording to be used as it is presented or information checked first with a contact in the organisation. However you want your web information used, state this in a notice on the home page. Such notices are recommended, although they are rarely found on local government web pages.

A disclaimer notice regarding the content of the web site is also a good idea. The following is an example of an American notice.

While every effort has been made to

keep the data published on these pages

correct and up to date, the copyright

holder will not be held responsible for

any changes, omissions or inaccuracies

contained herein which may result in

unforeseen expense, injury or other

misfortune[31]

Local government web sites frequently contain links to other sites outside the organisation. It is prudent to incorporate a disclaimer about these sites. The notice found on the City of Boulder web site is one example.

Please note: Some of the links on this

page lead to resources outside Boulder.

The presence of these links is in no way

an implied endorsement by the City of

Boulder of these sites or their content.

We ask you to please confirm

information received via the internet

prior to official publication or usage.

All material on this website is copyright

by the City of Boulder[32]

Legal advice should be sought regarding any notices or disclaimers used.

Implications

Policies

The local government authorities contacted for this project do not have formal policies relating to the use of the internet. The internet is viewed as a communication tool, just like the telephone or postal system. It is used for work related matters, with personal usage being restricted to the minimum necessary. Use of the internet can be monitored through the use of logs. Potential abuse can be detected by the existence of large email files and long periods of time spent using the internet. As a result, the users can then have their internet access either restricted or removed. Staff who are working efficiently and effectively will not have time to waste by browsing on the internet. If individual staff are wasting time on the internet, then this is probably only one area of many where their work performance is lacking.

Computer viruses are a real threat. They are prevalent across the internet. Policies and procedures regarding the copying of files and virus checking need to be developed and implemented. All possible precautions need to be taken to prevent computers being infected and damaged.

The down loading of files from the internet at the City of Canterbury is only done by information technology personnel. The files are then checked for viruses before being copied onto the network and made available to the requesting staff member. Through this control, information technology staff are able to monitor the files and programs that are held and used.

Email

Many authorities throughout Australia use electronic mail as an effective and efficient correspondence tool between staff. The internet expands this use of email to outside the organisation.

Most authorities regard email as an informal correspondence tool. At times, staff have forwarded messages for registering within the records section. Other local government authorities formally record all email correspondence going in and out of the council. This can be achieved by having the records department receive all incoming email or setting up the network such that a copy is automatically sent to the recording officer.

Email is a legitimate correspondence tool and all communications through it needs to be treated just as seriously as those submitted in person, in writing or over the phone.[33] Important issues have been raised by members of the public through email and subsequently followed up.

Each local government authority should devise specific email policies, guidelines and procedures. These could have an impact on staffing resources, system requirements and finances. Some of the issues that need to be covered include

* Statement of content ownership

* Definition of what needs to be recorded and how this is to be done

* Common recording methods include filing a paper printout or retaining an electronic copy

* Storage, retention and retrieval guidelines

* Determine what needs to be recorded and who is responsible for it

* Purposes for which email may and may not be used

* Outline of any legal requirements entailed in the use and recording of email

* Comment on what monitoring, if any, is done by the organisation[34]

* Statement on confidentiality and security

* Guidelines on the format and style of corporate email messages

Staffing

Before access to the internet is implemented, an investigation into the issues raised should be carried out. A structured and perhaps phased implementation plan should be devised.

The amount of time devoted to setting up and maintaining an internet connection and presence varies according to what access and information is provided. Usage will determine the level of expertise needed by staff. This expertise can be gained by training and experience. For many organisations, someone with an interest and adeptness in working with computers is all that is required. It is recommended that computing staff handles the technical side if full networked access is implemented.

Time needs to be spent on installing the appropriate equipment and software to each computer that will be able to access the internet. Time will vary from an hour for a single computer with dial up access, to weeks to connect a network. Time will be determined by the size and the type of connection and security required.

Where information is mounted on the internet, staff time needs to be devoted to providing this information. It needs to be written, typed up using a word processor and carefully edited. If existing printed information is used, this may need to be thoroughly checked. The electronic document is then converted to a format suitable for publishing on the world wide web. Conversion to a world wide web document may be carried out either by staff or specialists outside the organisation.

Initiating and maintaining information on the web site is time consuming. Someone should be designated as the web coordinator. This person could be based in the library, computing, public relations or promotions department. The web coordinator's job would be to liaise with the various departments to ensure that the web site meets the organisation' s objectives.

Design and preparation of the web pages can be done by a staff member or outside body where some sort of cooperative agreement exists. The Newcastle City Council has an agreement with the Newcastle University where computing students do web maintenance for the council as part of their work experience. Other organisations have agreements with outside agencies.

Training

Use of the internet is relatively new within local government in Australia. Staff need to be trained in the skills of using the internet and creating documents for it. All staff who have internet access should be trained in how to best use it. A train the trainer approach could be used, where selected staff are trained in specific skills. An organisation such as the Internet Training Centre[35] offers such training. The trained people then go on to train others in the organisation.

Finances

The amount of money required to set up and maintain an internet connection and presence varies greatly.

For one or two access points, dial up access is the cheapest to set up and run. This is appropriate for organisations new to the internet, as access is limited to a few users. For large organisations where multiple access points are required, the more expensive option of a dedicated internet server may be appropriate. Costs that may need to be considered for internet access and use are

* Purchase of hardware and equipment

computer

server

security devices

modem

* A new phone line may need to be installed. This could be a line especially designed for electronic data communication, such as an ISDN or

* Microlink line

* Annual phone line maintenance

* Initial internet connection or joining fee

* Internet usage or access fee. There are different ways that usage is charged and rates vary. Discounts are common

* Purchase and licencing of software:

communication program

internet specific browsers

virus protection

security program

* Staffing resources for planning, preparation, coordination, installation, design, maintenance and updating

* Creation of web pages. Costs will vary according to the complexity of the design

* Costs incurred for the mounting and maintenance of web pages on an internet server

* Registration of a unique name for your web site[36]

The City of Greater Bendigo spent approximately $2,500 in the design and set up of its web site. It is outlaying $7,000 in annual maintenance and access fees.

The Hurstville City Council has set aside $50,000 from its total budget to expand its current access. It started with limited dial up access and is now investigating options in networking with a leased line connection. This could be used to connect their staff.

Melbourne City Council spent $100,000 to give internet email access to all staff and full internet access to 50 staff members. Much of the cost was absorbed by hardware and infrastructure costs.

The East Torrens District Council spent $20,000 in establishing its internet access. The cost of internet access has been offset by savings made in overtime costs. A trade off was made with staff so that they could have free access to the internet at home. If extra council work was done from home, then it would not be charged as overtime. These cost savings have been estimated at several thousand dollars per year.

Fees are being charged for information mounted by community groups and businesses. The East Torrens District Council charges $250 to mount information for groups not based in its local government area. The council does not charge ratepayers and residents. This is one way of encouraging its community to participate in its local web site.

The role of public libraries

Public libraries are the information providers for local government and the community. Local government authorities should make the most of the expertise of their library staff. Librarians are trained in how to best organise and access information. The internet is just another tool for the provision of information.

Involve your librarians in using the internet. In places such as the City of Canterbury and the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, the librarians are responsible for implementing internet access and initiating a council web site. These organisations acknowledge the expertise that the library staff have to offer.

Library staff are the logical people to be trained in using the internet and then going on to train others in the organisation. This is happening in several public libraries. Some libraries have become internet training centres and charge the public to attend their courses. To offer this service, there needs to be a suitable training area equipped with the appropriate technology and internet access.

If local government is going to use the internet to promote and market its own services then this information should be made freely available to the public. To achieve this, access to this information should be made available through the authority's public libraries, internet access could be arranged or the web pages could be mounted internally either on individual computers or through an intranet ie an internal network using internet `browser' software. In public libraries where the internet is available to the public, there are costs involved. In some cases, some of these costs are passed on in the form of minimal hourly charges.

Networks

Local government web sites are frequently linked to other web sites which deal with a common community or interest. For example Vicnet is a network catering to the Victorian community while the Australian Local Government Association's web site has links to local government web sites throughout Australia. Public libraries may have web sites that are separate from their local government authority. The two web sites are frequently accessed from the one home page which may also have links to other organisations in the same region.

Information available through local government association web sites includes

* Details about the association

* Summaries of association activities

* Circulars and newsletters

* Local government planner

* Copies of submissions

* Details of union awards

* Summaries of government reports and enquiries

* Analyses of government legislation particularly the budget

* Brief details about local government authorities represented by the association

* Links to local government web sites

The Australian Local Government Association is currently implementing a strategy

which will promote and coordinate

electronic information exchange

primarily within local government and,

to a lesser extent, between local

government, external organisations and

the community[37]

Using the internet as a basis, the proposed network is known as the Australian Local Government Information Network (Algin). Overseeing its development is the Local Government Electronic Information Strategy (Lgeis) Project.

One of the aims of Algin is to `provide access to local government electronic information'.[38] Alga `envisages that 80% of councils will be connected to the internet with fully trained staff to operate the system by 1998'.[39]

Freenets

Freenets are community networks based on a central computer network dedicated to storing and retrieving thousands of files of community relevant information, and to relaying thousands of electronic messages each day between community members and organisations.[40] They are set up as nonprofit organisations, usually by a group of dedicated volunteers. Funding may come from grants, sponsorships and membership subscriptions. Access to the network is free or moderately priced.

Freenets are viewed as an asset to both the information provider and the information consumer. They provide a unique insight into the communities in which they are based. Because community networks are intended to serve the community, each will reflect the particular interests and needs of that community. Most freenets have two principal functions

To increase communication between

residents, and between residents and

local government and institutions. To

facilitate the provision and exchange of

local information[41]

It is believed that `communication and information will increase the sense of community, increase involvement in the community, and serve as a tool to solve some of the problems facing the community at a grass roots level.[42] Citizens will become more active and informed, hence enhancing the democratic process. Freenets can also be used to support economic growth, education and social services in the community.[43]

Online computer systems, are a medium for dialogue and information sharing. Everyone will be able to participate, regardless of social or economic status.[44] It is an appropriate tool to use in encouraging community participation, but as one freenet group states `it is important to remember: internet access is a means to an end, not an end in itself.[45]

A suggested model

Use of the internet is new and exciting. Like anything new, it takes time to learn and gain experience. Local government authorities who have used the internet extensively and established an internet presence, would agree that it is wise to start small and gain confidence in the new tools.

Individual councils

Stage 1 Investigation

As a priority, councils should investigate the appropriateness of internet use by trialing the service using a single personal computer and modem. Join up with an internet service provider and have a look at what other councils are doing. Consider the internet's suitability in helping to meet councils' vision, aims and objectives. Determine its potential role in consultation with the community and ratepayers.

Stage 2 Planning

Once the decision is made to incorporate use of the internet into the business of the council, set out specific aims and objectives to be met. Allocate funding for staffing, training and resources for the project. Give appropriate council staff access and determine the rationale for what information is going to be provided. Involve staff in the process so that changes will be `owned' by the organisation as a whole.

Stage 3 Implementation

Plan and develop a small web site for the council. Make the most of staff expertise, particularly library, computing and public relations staff. Promote the new service to ratepayers, making sure that the council's web page is available though the library. Ask users for feedback, perhaps incorporating such questions as `Why did you visit this site?', `Did you find what you were looking for?' and `Where are you calling from?' Ensure that a counter is incorporated into your web site so that visitor numbers are monitored.

Stage 4 Evaluation

Evaluate the success of the internet in meeting the aims and objectives. This should occur at regular intervals. Continual planning should include the examination, and if required, augmentation of allocated resources.

Stage 5 Expansion

Further develop the web site and expand internet access to the council as a whole. If warranted, investigate getting your own web server, or see what can be done in conjunction with other councils on a regional basis.

Councils as a group

It is relatively easy for an individual council to connect to the internet and experience the phenomenon for itself. Once initiated, there are options that can be taken to achieve economies of scale.

In regional areas, cooperation exists between agencies in the provision of information services. State and territory library services and local government have worked together to provide a quality library service to local communities. Similarly there are opportunities for cooperation with use of internet. This could be achieved by

* Investigating options for networking initiatives through organisations such as local government associations and state and territory library services

* Investigating opportunities to minimise internet costs for councils throughout the region. This could entail a joint tender for services of an internet service provider to provide access, to develop web pages and to train staff

* Giving full support to the replacement of existing library systems. This will put local government libraries in the position of offering seamless internet services to their clients

The future

Local government authorities across Australia are at different stages with regard to use of the internet. Some are investigating its use, others are experimenting and a few are using it extensively. In the three months taken to research this project, six additional Australian local government web sites were made available.

Local government staff and elected members are being convinced of the benefits of internet access. In sites where the internet has been implemented as an experiment, expansion is being planned. Full access to the internet for their staff and elected members is the aim of many local government authorities.

The Melbourne City Council is currently expanding its presence on the internet and strengthening its marketing approach. It is working towards consensus across the organisation as to what should be mounted.

The Nillumbuk Shire Council aims to be the initial point of access for anyone who is wanting any information about the shire area. It plans to contract a `webmaster' to control, coordinate and expand its web pages to include and involve businesses and community organisations.

New services that local governments in Australia aim to offer include

* Electronic rates payments

* Electronic lodgement of permits and plans

* Electronic payments of fines, fees, registrations and other charges

* Using virtual reality to create three dimensional rooms. Each room will be the site of online discussions on particular topics

* The creation of virtual galleries for online tourists

* Empowering clients to take a more active role in local government decisions through the use of discussion forums, email and questionnaires

* Enabling clients to track their own enquiries and complaints. The status of their correspondence would be available online at anytime

* The creation of a virtual city

* Presenting information using multimedia presentations

* Involving residents in local government through the use of interactive comment forms

* Importing information from interactive forms direct to local databases

References

[1] Walker, L and Brannan, T Internet offers power to the people American city & county February 1996 p10

[2] Global Info-Links (nd) p4-5

[3] Hobart Council brings aldermen on line Government equipment news September 1996 p6

[4] Fidelman, M Life in the fast lane: a municipal roadmap for the information superhighway 1994 at <http://www.civic.net:2401/fastlane.html>

[5] Best practices of city governments volume II (1995) from The 63rd Annual Conference of Mayors, June 1995 at <http://www.clearlake.ibm.corn/Alliance/ne wstuff/mayors/index.htm>

[6] Moura, B San Carlos discovers the internet Public management 1 January 1996 p35

[7] Fidelman op cit 

[8] Moura op cit p33

[9] ibid

[10] Twin cities free-net mission at <http://freenet.msp.mn.us/admin/mission.ht ml> August 10, 1996

[11] Vines, R Solving the online puzzle PC user June 1995 p69

[12] Torr, J A travel survival guide to the information superhighway PC super market June 1995 p56

[13] Fidelman, M The internet for local government 1996 at <http://civic.net/lgnety/internet5.html>

[14] Telstra internet at <http://www.telstra. com.au>

[15] Cobb, S Internet firewalls Australian personal computer November 1995 p185

[16] Frequently asked questions about Set Visa expo: tomorrow at <http://www.visa.com/cgi-bin/vee/sf/set/faq. html?2+0>

[17] Professional interactive phone [phone]

[18] Nielson, J Top ten mistakes in web design, May 1996 at <http://www.sun.com/960416/columns/alert box/index.html>

[19] ibid

[20] Worthington, T Databases, the internet and society, or... the web: public good and potential disaster 7 August, 1996 at <http://www.peg.apc.org/~tomw/twadd20. htm>

[21] Ciolek, T Quality info. Systems - catalogue of potent truisms: a collaborative gathering of thoughts and ideas at <http://coombs.anu.edu.au/SpecialProj/ QLTY/QltyTruisms.html>

[22] Nielson op cit

[23] Do's and don'ts of on-line marketing at <http://www.dserv.com/~andrew/dosdonts. html>

[24] Nielsen, J Interface design for Sun's www site 1996 at <http://www.sun.com/sun-on-net/uidesign/>

[25] Nielson, Jakob Top ten mistakes in web design

[26] Worthington op cit

[27] Moura, Brian op cit p34

[28] Web development analysis 11 Jul 1996 at <http://www.december.com/web/develop/ analyze.html>

[29] Maximum web traffic to your site at <http://www.interlog.corn/~photodsk/ webmax/webmax.html> Free www promotion &search sites at <http://www.vir.com/~wyatt/index.html>

[30] Promoting your page Oregon State University at <http ://www. orst.edy/aw/stygui/Propag.htm> 4 September 1996

[31] Welcome to the local government web site, Durban, South Africa 1996 at <http://www.durban.gov.za/durban/intro. htm>

[32] Welcome to the City of Boulder at <http://bcn.boulder.co.us/boulder/>

[33] Moura op cit p33

[34] Company email policy-topics and alternative clauses 14 July, 1996 at <http://www.cli.org/emailpolicy/topics. html>

[35] Internet Training Institute, Level 1,969 Burke Road Camberwell Vic 3124 Tel [phone] Fax [phone]

[36] Aunic Registration Services at <http://www.aunic.net/>

[37] Australian Local Government Information Network (Algin) : Project information at <http://www.peg.apc.org/~bcotter/ALGA/ ALGINsum.htm#Summary>

[38] ibid

[39] ibid

[40] The Calgary Free-net Association Calgary free-net community computing project April 1994 at <http://duke.usask.ca/-scottp/calgary.txt>

[41] Beamish, A Communities online: community based computer networks February 1995 at <http://alberti.mit.edu/arch/4.207/anneb/ thesis/background.html~ntroduction> [42] ibid

[43] ibid

[44] Twin Cities Fr. ee-Net Mission op cit

[45] ibid

[46] An internet glossary at <http://www.alpha-video.com/Glossary. htm>

[47] Glossary terms 19 December 1995 at <http://www.cedi.com/terms.html/index. html>

[48] Glossary of internet terms at <http://www.nainc.corn/authors/terms. html>

Appendix 1 List of local government sites in Australia

These sites were found by using the following tools: National Library of Australia http://www.nla.gov.au/oz/gov/ searching the terms local government in the Wombat search engine following links from local government associations' web sites

New South Wales 

City of Botany Bay http://www.com.au/botany/council.html

City of Canterbury http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/canterbury

Dubbo City Council http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/dubbo/dcchome.htm

Gunnedah Shire http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/gunnedah

Hastings Council http://www.midcoast.com.au/govt/hc/hc.html

Hurstville Council http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/plb/hurstville

Lake Macquarie City Council http://www.library.newcastle.edu.au/hunter/infohunt/ lakemac/council/council.htm

Lismore City Council http:/www.liscity.nsw.gov.au/

Liverpool City Council http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/liverpool

Manly Council http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/manly/COUNCIL/ Manhome.htm

Newcastle City Council http://www.library.newcastle.edu.au/hunter/infohunt/ newcastl/council/council.htm

Parramatta City Council http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/parramatta

Penrith City http://www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/

Singleton Shire Council http://www.library.newcastle.edu.au/hunter/infohunt/singlton/ council/council.htm

Waverley Council http://www.ozemail.com.au/~guybondi/home.htm

Willoughby City Council http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/willoughby

Wyong Shire Council http://www.library.newcastle.edu.au/hunter/infohunt/wyong/ council/council.htm

Queensland

Council of the City of the Gold Coast http://www.nt.com.au/gccc/COUNCIL.HTM

Hervey Bay City Council http://www.rypac.corn.au/~frasertravel/hervey/ council/council.htm

Ipswich City http://iccu6.ipswich.gil.com.au:80/home.html

South Australia 

District Council of East Torrens http://www.easttorrens.sa.gov.au/districts/deasttor.html

City of Mitcham http://ozemail.com.au/~ellery/mitch.html

District Council of Mount Remarkable http://www.camtech.com.au/easttorrens/districts/dmtr.htm

District Council of Willunga http://www.adam.com.au/~peterh/

Tasmania

Hobart City Council http://www.hcc.tas.gov.au

Victoria

East Gippsland Shire Council http://www.gips.com.au/East-Gippsland-Shire/ Frankston City http://www.vicnet.net.au/~fccit

City of Greater Bendigo http://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/bendigo.html City of Melbourne http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council http://www.vicnet.net.au/~nepeanet/mpsc/index.html

Nillumbuk Shire Council http://www.nillum.vic.gov.au

City of Stonnington http://www.vicnet.net.au/vicnet/stonning/stonnington.html

City of Whitehorse http://www.vicnet.net.au/~whitehorse

City of Yarra http://www.yarranet.net.au/council/council.html

Shire of Yarra Ranges http://www.vicnet.net.au/~yranges

Basic information about individual Victorian Councils and Cities is available through http://www.vicnet.net.au/-mav/

Western Australia 

City of Fremantle http://www.inet.com.au/-frelib/freocity.html

Appendix 2 Some Australian networks incorporating local government

ALGA - Australian Local Government Association ALGIN - Australian Local Government Information Network ALGIS - Australian Local Government Information Service Barossa Regional Economic Development

Community Information Network CouncilNet Dandenong Regional Library Service Eastern Regional Libraries Geelong Regional Library Service Illawarra Regional Information Service LGAT - Local Government Association of Tasmania LGEIS - Local Government Electronic Information Strategy Workspace

LGIS - The South Australian Local Government Information Service Local Government and Shires Associations of New South Wales Local Government Association of Tasmania Municipal Association of Victoria Nepean Net South Coast Cooperative Library Service Vicnet Wimmera Regional Library Service

http://www.alga.com.au http://www.alga.com.au/algin.htm http://www.parklane.com.au/citynet/cnover.htm http://www.wombat.com.au/wombat/showcase/ eda/sa/barossa/index.html http://www.cin.gov.au http://www.peg.apc.org/~councilnet http://vicnet.net.au/~dvrls/dvr_hm.htm http://www.vicnet.net.au/~eastlibs/erl.htm http://www.vicnet.net.aul~grls/welcome.htm http://www.iris.org.au/region.html http://ingomar.lgat.tas.gov.au/ http://www.peg.org/~bcotter/ALGA/ algworkspace.html http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/lgahome.htm http://www.lgsa.org.au http://ingomar.lgat.tas.gov/lgat.htm http://www.vicnet.net.au/~mav/mav.htm http://www.nepeanet.org.au http://www.slnsw.gov.au/plb/libs/scoop http://www.vienet.net.au/vicnet/localgovt.htm http://www.wimmera.net.au/WRLS/about.htm

Appendix 3 International sites and networks of interest

These sites were found searching the terms local government in the Excite search engine and following links from other sites.

City of Alexandria, Virginia Government abag Online - Association of Bay Area Governments City of Beverly Hills Birmingham Assist City of Bothell City of Boulder City of Calgary Municipal Government City of Cambridge, Massachusetts Cambridge City Council Capital NET Cardiff Carnegie-Stout Public Library Chicago Mosaic Christchurch City Council The Davis Community Network Information Devon - Devon County Council Durban, South Africa Free-Nets & Community Networks Halifax Regional Municipality King County Local Governments on the internet In/site Mississauga LGnet: Local Government Network National League of Cities - Local Government City of Los Angeles Los Gatos, California, USA Montgomery County National Association of Counties Planning and Architecture internet Resource Center (PAIRC) Palo Alto California Phoenix at Your Fingertips Riverside County, California, USA The City of St. Louis Government Information City of San Carlos, California City of Santa Monica Public Electronic Network South Washington County Community Pages State and Local Government on the Net Twin Cities Free-Net The U.S. Conference of Mayors UK Local Government Wellington City Council City of West Hollywood 

http://ci.alexandria.va.us/alexandria.html http://www.abag.ca.gov/ http://www.ci.beverly-hills.ca.us/ http://birmingham.gov.uk/ http://www.northshorecc.org/ncc/bothell/bothell.htm http://bcn.boulder.co.us/boulder/ http://www.gov.calgary.ab.ca/ http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/ http://www.cambridge.gov.uk/cambridge.htm http://info.cf.ac.vk/ccin/main/mainpage.htm http://www.dubugue.lib.ia.us/ http://www.ci.chi.il.us/ http://www.ccc.govt.nz/ http://www.dcn.davis.ca.us/ http://www.devon-cc.gov.uk/ http://www.durban.gov.za/ http://duke.usask.ca/~scottp/free.html http://www.ccn.cs.dal.ca/Government/HRM/hrmhome2.html http://www.metrokc.gov http://www.ig.org/resource/sites.html http://www.city.mississauga.on.ca/ http://civic.net/lgnet/ http://www.cais.net/nlc/nlc-loc.html http://www.ci.la.ca.us/ http://www.los-gatos.ca.us/los_gatos/ http://www.co.mo.md.us/ http://www.naco.org/ http://www.arch.buffalo.edu/cgi-bin/pairc/ http://www.city.palo-alto.ca.us/home.html http://www.ci.phoenix.az.us/ http://www.co.reverside.ca.us http://www.st-louis.mo.us/st-louis/city/ http://www.ci.san-carlos.ca.us/ http://pen.ci.santa-monica.ca.us/ http://www.sowashco.com/index.shtml http://www.piperinfo.com/piper/state/states.html http://freenet.msp.mn.us/ http://www.usmayors.org/uscm/ http://www.brent.gov.uk/other/uk-locl.htm http://www.wcc.govt.nz/index-g.htm http:www.ci.west-hollywood.ca.vs/

Appendix 4 Resourcees

HTML

FrontPage by Microsoft HotDog Internet Assistant (for use with Microsoft Word) at

<http://198.105.232.5:80/msoffice/freestuf-/msword/downloadIia> Internet Publisher (for use with WordPerfect for Windows) at

<http://wp.novell.com/elecpub/inttoc.htm> Links to useful web pages, 1996, Oregon State University, 27 August, 1996 at

<http://www.orst.edu/aw/stygui/linuse.htm> Musciano, C and Kennedy, B HTML: The definite guide Sebastopol Ca., O'Reilly & Associates 1996 PageMill by Adobe (For Macintosh machines) Tittel, E and James, S HTML For dummies Foster City CA, IDG Books Worldwide 1996 WEB.DESIGNER by Corel

Web page design

Putting information onto the web, 1996, at

<http://www.w3.org/pub/WWW/Provider/Overview.html> 15 May 1995 Quality Info. Systems - Top 10 ways to make your www service a flop Coombs Computing Unit,

Research Schools of Social Sciences & Pacific and Asian Studies, Canberra, 12 August 1996 at

<http://coombs.anu.edu.au/SpecialProj/QLTY/FlopMaker.html>

Security issues

Stein, L The world wide web security FAQ Version 1.2.4 at <http://www.genome.wi.mit.edu/WWW/faqs/www-security-faq.html> April 26 1996

Internet guides

Benson, A The complete internet companion for librarians New York, Neal-Schuman 1995

Cedeno, N The internet tool kit San Francisco Calif, SYBEX 1995

Levine, J More internet for dummies 2nd ed Foster City Ca, IDG Books Worldwide 1996

Lynch, D and Lundquist, L Digital money: the new era of internet commerce New York, John Wiley & Sons 1996

McClure, C Public libraries and the internet: study results, policy issues and recommendations Washington DC, National Commission on Libraries and Information Science 1994

Pfaffenberger, B World wide web bible 2nd ed New York, MIS: Press 1996

Senjen, R and Guthrie, J The internet for women North Melbourne, Spinifex Press 1996

Sydow, D The internet for Macs for dummies Foster City Ca., IDG Books Worldwide 1996

Tauber, D and Kienan, B Surfing the internet with Netscape Alameda CA, Sybex 1995

Note The web pages cited above were accessed between July and September 1996. Due to the evolving nature of the world wide web, some of these pages have since been altered, rewritten or removed

Marina Garlick Manager Administration and Collection Development Stanton Library North Sydney Council 

Received February 1997

Kathy Stapleton DipT BEd ALAA GradDipComp MACS is Senior Librarian, Information Technology with the Darwin Public Library and Information Service. Prior to moving to Darwin in 1990 she worked as a teacher librarian in South Australia. Address: GPO Box 84 Darwin NT 0801 Te1(08)89456023