Some reflections on IPv6 adoption in Australia

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to put forward a case for increased research into the likely economic impact in Australia of early or late diffusion of IPv6, and to argue that Government intervention may be necessary.Design methodology approach - The paper characterises the approach to IPv6 in Australia to date as generally laissez-faire, and compares this with diffusion and promotion efforts in countries in which IPv6 has become more widely adopted.Findings - The paper finds that IPv6 diffusion is inevitable in the long term, but early diffusion is unlikely in the absence of government action. The likely economic impact on Australia of early versus late IPv6 diffusion is unknown, yet it is potentially of national interest.Originality value - This study identifies the need for research into the economic impact of IPv6 diffusion in Australia and is relevant to individuals and organisations involved in telecommunications and policy and research funding.