Queensland data opens up world of possibilities

The launch of a new computer program will open up a vault of spatial data and provide countless opportunities across the property, development, education and tourism sectors.

Premier Campbell Newman today launched the free Queensland Globe computer program that allows users to apply State Government data to Google Earth satellite images.

“I’m delighted to be able to launch the Queensland Globe today to coincide with the Government’s Opening the Vault: Open Data in Queensland forum,” Mr Newman said.

“This launch puts the keys to a world of spatial data into the hands of Queenslanders.

“Queensland Globe adds State Government data including land tenure status, property boundaries, postcode, locality or electoral boundaries to the popular and readily available Google Earth.”

Mr Newman said the information in Queensland Globe would open up opportunities for the private sector, educational institutions and community groups.

“For example, the property development industry and potential home buyers will now be able to analyse flood lines from the 2011 and 2013 flood events when evaluating a potential home or land purchase,” he said.

“Science and geography teachers now have a free and powerful tool to help students learn about our vast state, while high quality aerial photography could be used to help attract investors from interstate and overseas.”

At today’s Opening the Vault: Open Data in Queensland forum, Premier Newman announced an Industry Advisory Body to align the Government’s efforts with the needs and expectations of industry.

“The Queensland Government is committed to being accountable and we are excited about opening our stores of information under our Open Data revolution,” Mr Newman said.

“We will be appointing a panel of experts from the IT industry, academia and the wider private sector to advise Assistant Minister for e-Government, Ray Stevens MP.”

Mr Newman also threw open a competition to build real outcomes based on open data.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what innovative applications come out of this six month challenge, and I encourage anyone with entrepreneurial and technical expertise to enter,” he said.

Queensland Globe can be freely accessed at www.nrm.qld.gov.au/mapping/queensland-globe.html and is fully compatible with Android mobile and tablet devices.

Users of Queensland Globe are encouraged to provide feedback through the Lands Queensland Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LandQueensland.

[ENDS] 3 April, 2013                                     Premier’s Office: 3224 4500