Queensland developers awarded for innovative use of open data

Technology applications that improve driver safety in school zones and provide more accurate public transport information are among those recognised for innovative achievements using government open data.

Premier Campbell Newman announced the winners of the 2013 Premier’s Awards for Open Data at a ceremony held at The Cube, Gardens Point Campus, QUT.

Mr Newman said the awards applauded those initiatives using government data to create solutions and deliver new and more effective services for all Queenslanders.

“Open data is part of this government’s commitment to transparency and sharing information, the likes of which has never been seen in Queensland before,” Mr Newman said.

“Tonight we have acknowledged innovation from web and app developers for their outstanding efforts at driving relevant, real-life applications for the benefit of Queenslanders.

“The inaugural awards received a great response with high-quality nominations across all categories.

“I congratulate our winners across the four categories – Yan Sun, Queensland Council of Social Service, Rachael Mulliss and Robert Crago.”

The 2013 category winners each receive $5000 in prize money.

Microsoft Australia also announced the winner of the inaugural Start-Up Accelerator Award at the ceremony.

[ENDS] 3 December 2013

Media contact: Premier’s Office (07) 3719 7000

Premier’s Awards for Open Data 2013 winners

Public transport

Yan Sun for Brisbane Bus and Train

Brisbane Bus and Train is an award-winning Windows phone application. The intention of this application is to improve the data accuracy, add new trip planner features and enable interaction between passengers and TransLink.

Improved service delivery

Queensland Council of Social Service for Queensland Community Services Map

Designed for people working in the health and community services sector to help them find the right services for their clients. Based on data drawn from the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services and organised into regions using geospatial data from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines. This application is a searchable, interactive map of community services from across the state.

Growing and developing Queensland’s future

Rachael Mulliss for AgriHUB: Focus on Agriculture in Queensland

This project is based on information gathered in the Queensland Government’s recent land audit. A simple, interactive mapping tool is the centre of the project, and vast amounts of documentation are knitted together in an interactive and immersive style. This web application will empower the industry to generate and discuss more informed, sustainable business and environmental decisions, while assisting with the Queensland Government’s action plan to double industry output by 2040.

Open

Robert Crago for School Zones

School Zones is an application that grew out of frustration with driving around Queensland and seeing speed restriction signs outside schools, not always knowing whether a speed adjustment was required or a police fine was imminent.