Reading plays a major part in the lives of many Australians. While a familiar and popular pastime, book reading habits are changing and increasingly Australians are buying online and choosing to read an e-book.

Inviting all Australians to have their say on the future of the book industry, Innovation, Industry, Science and Research Minister, Senator Kim Carr, today said digital book production and global online distribution is transforming the nature of the industry.
“The Gillard Labor Government values the Australian book industry and understands that all Australians should be able to have their say in its future,” Senator Carr said.
“In today’s society, many consumers buy their books online and then read them on compact e-readers, which also store their entire personal library.
In February this year, I established the Book Industry Strategy Group to address the challenges for the future of this increasingly digital industry.
To ensure the book industry is sustainable and thrives in the digital economy, we need a plan that takes into account the needs and views of all stakeholders.  It also needs to include actions that boost the amount of Australian content made available by Australian e-book retailers.
I trust that Australian printers, publishers, retailers, consumers and all other interested parties will stand up and have their say on this important issue.”
Book Industry Strategy Group chair, the Hon Dr Barry Jones AO, said it is important to hear from both the industry and consumers.  “Through the submission process, we are seeking input from all parts of the book industry, but equally importantly, we want to hear from consumers,” he said.
The Government is seeking submissions from today until 10 December 2010.
For more information, visit www.innovation.gov.au/bisg .