State of the Nation Report sheds light on Australia’s digital economy

The comprehensive State of the Nation Report 2014 by Ernst & Young has revealed music and entertainment leads Australia's digital universe.

1,500 consumers were interviewed along with 167 ‘thought leaders’ and produced some interesting results, especially in regards to the entertainment sector. The stats showeddigital music sites ranking fourth in regards to the best online/mobile experiences available, according to 23% of those surveyed. Television and films were at the top of the list with 26% of consumers making them their preferred digital indulgence.

When it came to devices most used to access the Internet, mobile units were the number one tools, with smart phones being the most popular. 78% of consumers used them, followed by 72% who opted for portable laptops and notebooks.

49% of users listened to and downloaded music, podcasts, TV and films on laptops, while 38% used desktop computers. Smartphone usage came in at 36%.

Describing the disposition of digital consumerism in the country, the report stated, “Australians readily differentiate between good online experiences and those that fall short of the mark. We are seeing consumers take a harder line in assessing their online experiences and this will become more pronounced in 2015 and beyond.”

The harder line mentioned could be referring to the 40% of consumers and 67% of ‘digital thought’ leaders that believe that Australia runs the risk of being left behind in the digital economy due to government policy.

The report also saw Australia fall to 49th in the world when it comes to affordability for digital access, a stat that will surely see the debate for price matching continue.