http:// 2012-05-17T02:07:00Z 2012-05-17T02:07:00Z blackberry-7-1-os-now-available-in-australia

The new BlackBerry 7.1 Operating System (OS) from Research In Motion (RIM) is now available for download by customers in Australia. The new OS update incorporates a number of enhancements including a feature called BlackBerry Tag for NFC-enabled BlackBerry smartphones. BlackBerry 7.1 is now available from Vodafone and Optus. Devices powered by BlackBerry 7 OS - the BlackBerry Bold™ 9900, Torch™ 9860 & 9810 and Curve™ 9360 – are compatible for the upgrade. How to download the operating system update Connect your BlackBerry 7 smartphone to your computer through a USB connection, visit www.blackberry.com/update from your computer, click “check for updates” and simply follow the on-screen instructions. New BlackBerry 7.1 OS features include: BlackBerry Tag: The BlackBerry 7.1 OS incorporates a new feature called BlackBerry Tag which changes the way BlackBerry users can share information and content. By simply tapping their Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled BlackBerry smartphone against another NFC enabled BlackBerry smartphone, users can invite a friend to BBM or exchange contact information, documents, URLs, photos and other multimedia content. They can also pair their BlackBerry smartphone with a NFC-enabled Bluetooth device. Mobile Hotspot: With BlackBerry 7.1, users can be even more productive on the go by turning their BlackBerry smartphone into a mobile hotspot that can be shared by up to 5 Wi-Fi -enabled devices, including laptops and tablets1. Universal Search: The Universal Search capability has further been enhanced to help users find what they are looking for. It now includes an auto-suggest feature that intelligently filters Bing search results to offer users a variety of relevant Web sites based on their search terms. FM Radio: The BlackBerry 7.1 OS will also let BlackBerry Curve 9360 smartphone customers enjoy FM radio. The FM radio circuitry is already built in to the Curve 9360 model and BlackBerry 7.1 provides users with a new app that allows them to tune in and enjoy local FM radio stations. Listening to the FM radio does not require a data plan or count as data usage. For more information about BlackBerry 7.1 OS, visit www.blackberry.com/bb7. 1 Mobile hotspot feature may require an additional data plan. Please check with your service provider. Media Contacts: Spectrum Communications (PR agency for RIM) +61 2 9954 3299 blackberry@spectrumcomms.com.au The BlackBerry and RIM families of related marks, images and symbols are the exclusive properties and trademarks of Research In Motion Limited.

2012-03-08T00:16:00Z aimia-and-adma-release-group-buying-guidelines-for-merchants

SYDNEY, Australia, 8 March 2012 – AIMIA and ADMA have today jointly released A Business Guide to Group Buying. Following on from the Australian Group Buying Code of Conduct announced by AIMIA and ADMA in November, the business guide has been compiled to give advice on how businesses can benefit from using the group buying channel, and how to avoid potential pitfalls. It helps business owners understand their responsibilities to consumers and manage the risks to ensure a positive outcome for all. “The group buying channel provides fantastic opportunities to businesses. Telsyte have predicted the Australian group buying industry will grow by 30 per cent in 2012, and as the channel matures there’s a clear need for best practice guidelines for businesses,” said AIMIA CEO John Butterworth. “The business guide we’ve announced today provides concrete advice to businesses to help them determine if group buying is for them, help them structure a deal that will support their business growth and avoid possible problems that can arise if group buying offers are not managed properly.” “The guide has been developed to help businesses deliver a group buying experience that is positive for both consumers and the business. The guide is another important step in improving standards in group buying that will ultimately benefit consumers. The guide complements the Australian Group Buying Code of Conduct which was released in November 2011.” said Jodie Sangster, ADMA CEO. The guidelines have been designed around specific considerations for businesses, including: Structuring a product or service offering for a deal that fits well with their business capacity and sales and marketing strategyUnderstanding the terms of the merchant agreement with a group buying providerPreparing for the redemption or fulfilment of the offer Tips for acquiring repeat business from group buying customers Dealing with customer complaints related to the offerKey legal issues and obligations to be aware of A pdf copy of the guide can be downloaded from the AIMIA website here or the ADMA website here. Media contact: Jennifer Jefferys Spectrum Communications 02 9954 3299 aimia@spectrumcomms.com.au About AIMIA Founded in 1992, AIMIA is the peak industry body for Digital Content, Services and Applications in Australia. AIMIA is devoted to the commercial development of the industry as a whole and to the commercial development of the distinct AIMIA members and AIMIA member groups. See www.aimia.com.au. About ADMA ADMA is the principal industry body for data-driven, customer-centric, measurable marketing in Australia. Since our foundation in 1966, ADMA’s mission has been to create an environment for the advancement of responsible, effective and enlightened marketing. For more information on ADMA go to www.adma.com.au.

2011-09-16T00:51:00Z aimia-announces-2011-amber-award-winners

SYDNEY, Australia – 16 September 2011 – AIMIA is pleased to announce the winners of the 2011 AMBER Awards. The AMBER Awards celebrate and recognise excellence in eServices, Customer Service & eCommerce in Australian and New Zealand industries such as Online Banking, Online Retail, Online Travel and Online Government. The 3rd Annual AMBER Awards, hosted by James O’Loghlin, were held last night at Customs House in Sydney. Senator the Hon Nick Sherry, Minister for Small Business, spoke at the event and presented an award. The accolades awarded reflect strong and expanding Australian eServices, Customer Service & eCommerce sectors. The growing popularity of group buying sites has led to the inclusion of an award dedicated to the online trend with JumpOnIt taking out this year’s inaugural award. AMBER Awards co-founder Paul McCarthy said, “Group buying is a hot area globally and this is no different in Australia where we’re seeing a hyper-competitive environment and significant amount of investment in the space. At the intersection of social media, pure-play online retail and private shopping, the group buying sector will continue to be an interesting one to watch.” Banking and financial services were another hotly contested area. “Australian banks are the envy of many of their peers around the world and Australians have been quick to take up online banking services,” said McCarthy. “It's a little known fact that Australia’s major banks and insurance companies are among our largest employers of technology talent. The winners of this year’s AMBER Awards demonstrate the fruits of the sector's investment in this talent.” McCarthy said this year’s awards reflect a ‘coming of age’ of Australia’s online retail sector. “Online retailing by the major Australian retailing groups Coles Myer and Woolworths is now mainstream with over 1.5 million Australians each month using online grocery services. Dan Murphy's, Woolworth's online liquor store has been a standout success in this sector recording stellar growth in 2011.” “At the same time, there's also plenty of healthy competition from "pure-play" challengers and independents who have significantly expanded their physical franchise online such as Peter's of Kensington.” “The AMBER awards are an important celebration of the successes of businesses that have embraced the digital economy,” Senator Sherry said launching the awards. “They are a timely reminder of the fundamental shift in the way that we are delivering and consuming services. “I congratulate all finalists and winners on developing innovative business models to deliver high quality online services.” 2011 AMBER Awards Winners by Category Category Service Website Parent Company Status Online Auctions eBay Australia ebay.com.au eBay Australia & New Zealand Winner Online Banking NetBank netbank.commbank.com.au Commonwealth Bank Winner Online Government Bureau of Meteorology bom.gov.au Bureau of Meteorology Winner Online Insurance NRMA Insurance nrma.com.au Insurance Australia Group Winner Online Retail (Fashion) Surf Stitch surfstitch.com Surf Stitch Winner Online Retail (General) Peter's of Kensington petersofkensington.com.au Peter's of Kensington Winner Online Retail (Group Buying) Jump On It jumponit.com JumpOnIt Winner Online Retail (Group Buying) Scoopon scoopon.com.au Scoop On Highly Commended Online Retail (Group Buying) Spreets spreets.com.au Spreets Highly Commended Online Retail (Media & Entertainment) Dymocks Online dymocks.com.au Dymocks Group Winner Online Retail (Technology) The Apple Store store.apple.com.au Apple Inc Winner Online Trading NAB OnLine Trading ols.nab.com.au NAB Winner Online Travel (Accommodation) Wotif.com wotif.com Wotif.com Holdings Winner Online Travel (Flights) lastminute.com.au lastminute.com.au Lastminute Winner Mobile Banking (iPhone, Android and Other) NetBank CommBank Commonwealth Bank Winner Mobile Commerce (iPhone, Android and Other) PayPal PayPal eBay inc Winner Online Services Innovation Dan Murphy's danmurphys.com.au Dan Murphy's Winner The AMBER finalists are selected from a range of online businesses that receive the highest traffic by Australian visitors. The winners are then established by using combined results of scores from independent, nationwide customer satisfaction survey and expert analysis from an independent online services lab testing facility. For more information on the AMBER Awards visit: www.amberawards.com.au Media contacts: Jennifer Jefferys Spectrum Communications 02 9954 3299 aimia@spectrumcomms.com.au About AIMIA Founded in 1992, AIMIA is the peak industry body for Digital Content, Services & Applications in Australia.. AIMIA is devoted to the commercial development of the industry as a whole and to the commercial development of the distinct AIMIA members and AIMIA member groups. See www.aimia.com.au.

2011-08-12T00:59:00Z australia-and-new-zealand-s-top-100-online-services-revealed

Finalists for the 3rd Annual AMBER Awards have been announced today with 100 companies taking out the honours across 15 categories. Each AMBER finalist represents the “people’s choice” as to who are Australia and New Zealand’s best online service providers. The AMBER finalists were selected from a comprehensive field of online businesses that receive the most traffic by Australian visitors. The winners will be established using a combined result of scores from an independent, nationwide customer satisfaction survey and expert analysis from an independent online services lab testing facility. Australian financial services are largely represented throughout the list of finalists, including some of the major banks. Editor of Technology Spectator and AMBER Awards Co-Founder, Charis Palmer, comments on the importance of innovation in the online banking sector. “Australia's major banks continue to invest heavily in online banking, and with mobile banking experiencing exponential growth, the gap between the leaders and fast followers is clear. The case for innovation has never been stronger,” Ms Palmer said. The Awards were established to provide an independent yardstick by which to measure and recognise Australia’s best mainstream web and mobile services. “We’re revealing the hottest and most loved consumer online services, derived from a comprehensive, independent nationwide survey,” said AMBER Awards Co-Founder, Paul McCarthy. Finalists are now in the process of being ‘lab tested’ to establish how comprehensive they are to use. Scores from lab tests and the customer satisfaction scores will then be combined to determine who will be Australia’s AMBER Award winners for 2011. “There are 100 finalists in fifteen categories covering the most used online services in Australia and NZ including online banking, online retail and online travel,” said Mr McCarthy. “We have introduced a new category covering the rapidly growing group buying and private shopping club phenomena”, he added. Winners of the 2011 AMBER Awards will be presented at a gala cocktail event at Sydney’s iconic Customs House, on Thursday September 15. To view the full list of finalists please click here. ### What is AMBER? Australia’s AMBER Awards are designed to recognise excellence in eServices in Australia. AMBER is an independent, consumer-centric award for digital services that combines customer experience and expert usability analysis. Awards are determined based on the results of thorough customer experience testing and analysis of Australia’s most used mainstream eCommerce and eService providers. Who is behind it? The AMBER Awards were devised by Paul McCarthy, the longstanding Chair of Judging of the Annual Interactive Media Industry Association Awards and Charis Palmer, one of Australia’s leading independent commentators on online financial services. The AMBER Awards are an initiative of Australia’s peak body for digital content, services and applications — the Australian Interactive Media Industry Association. The partners include Online Banking Review, TNS, MyOpinions and Access Testing. When and Where The AMBER Awards will be presented at a gala cocktail event at Customs House, Sydney on Thursday September 15, 2011. More information www.amberawards.com.au For more information please contact: Corinne Franks Paul McCarthy Phone: 02 9248 7900 Phone: (02) 9372 8286 E-mail: Corinne@aimia.com.au Email: paul.mccarthy@services.nsw.gov.au

2010-12-16T01:27:00Z aimia-digital-internship-program-celebrates-success

SYDNEY, Australia – 16 December 2010 – The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) is celebrating the successful placement of more than 40 interns, including both part time and full time positions, since its digital industry internship program began in June this year. AIMIA CEO John Butterworth said, “Our internship program is going from strength to strength and has proved to be a rewarding initiative for everyone who has been involved. It’s great to be able to give this support to our next generation of digital talent. We’re keen for more local companies to join the program, especially in the areas of video/film and digital design.” AIMIA has received overwhelming praise and encouragement from participants and host companies in the program. Phillip Smith, Managing Director at Apparent said, “We contacted AIMIA about participating in the intern program, and were delighted with the quality and calibre of the candidates presented – both on paper and in person. Our intern has been with us for three weeks now and has settled in well and is already an active contributor to the team. We all need to encourage new entrants to our industry and we will certainly be using AIMIA regularly in the future.” Riley Batchelor, Managing Director at Socialista Media said, “I have nothing but good things to say about the AIMIA internship program. The selection of potential candidates we have seen has been extensive and of a great quality.” Pip Jamieson of the Loop said of the program, “I couldn't recommend snapping up an AIMIA intern enough. The team at AIMIA made the whole process of hiring a cracking intern super easy and our intern was an incredible asset to the business both professionally and culturally.” Aden Hepburn, Head of Digital & Interactive, Ideaworks said, “We’ve been working closely with AIMIA to scout a range of new digital talent this year, in what’s been a pretty tough market. We managed to find a great depth of talent, across a number of disciplines and skillsets that we just couldn’t tap into anywhere else. The support from AIMIA has been great.” Sam Peters, currently interning at Ideaworks said, “I'm currently a Junior Producer/ Content Editor for Ideaworks in Sydney and I'm eternally grateful to the AIMIA internship program for helping me get there. As a recent university graduate I was concerned about how difficult it might be to enter the media industry, but with AIMIA's help I entered a position within a month, and Sophie at AIMIA went above and beyond to ensure I got the best position for my skills and interests. The internship program is efficient and effective and I'd recommend it to anybody finishing their studies who is looking for good work!” The AIMIA internship program, supported by the NSW Government, is designed to create access for undergraduate and post graduate students in the rapidly growing digital media industry. The program brings together Australian higher education organisations and digital media companies to give students a formal, structured internship opportunity while they are still studying or soon after graduation. Companies taking part in the program include Channel Ten, Ideaworks, The White Agency, Buzznumbers, La Roo, Firefly Interactive, HotHouse Interactive, Mercerbell, Pusher and Creative Digital Licence. For more information on the AIMIA internship program, click here. Companies interested in taking part should contact Sophie Adams, Internship Project Manager, AIMIA at Sophie@aimia.com.au. Ends Media Contact: Please contact Jennifer Jefferys at Spectrum Communications – 02 9954 3299 or aimia@spectrumcomms.com.au About AIMIA Founded in 1992, AIMIA is the peak national industry body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content sectors in Australia. AIMIA is devoted to the commercial development of the industry as a whole and to the commercial development of the distinct AIMIA members and AIMIA member groups that comprise the Interactive Media and Digital Sectors. See www.aimia.com.au.

2010-11-15T02:57:00Z aimia-and-telsyte-pioneer-book-release-digital-nation

Sydney, 15 November 2010 – AIMIA, in collaboration with Telsyte, is excited to announce the release of Digital Nation, a unique coffee table style book that captures facts, stats and essential information about digital consumer behaviour in Australia. Digital Nation provides the digital industry, its clients, and the broader business community with up-to-date information based on primary research conducted with Australian consumers. Published by Blurb and with creative by Rysen, AIMIA and Telsyte have delved into the heart of what makes the digital consumer tick. The result: a colourful journey through the Australian digital revolution. Digital Nation is a pictorial and graphical snapshot of digital Australia as we now know it, and a hint at what trends may be imminent for the future. Digital Nation provides insights and data analysis into the adoption of mobile applications, social networking, smart phones, digital commerce and a range of emerging technologies. Digital Nation also includes a full list of current AIMIA members and a foreword from both Foad Fadaghi, Research Director of Telsyte and John Butterworth, CEO of AIMIA. John Butterworth, CEO of AIMIA and Digital Nation collaborator articulated the rapid growth of the digital industries within Australia. “In only a few short years the term “Digital Economy” has become a ubiquitous phrase in Australia, complete with a Federal Government cabinet minister responsible for the rapidly growing economy based on digital technologies.” Foad Fadaghi, Research Director for Telsyte, author of Digital Nation expressed that the book captures “how the digital revolution is changing our society. For better or for worse, our relationships are increasingly shifting to the digital world.” “Australians are demonstrating an insatiable appetite for digital goods, services and subscriptions. Telsyte estimates that the digital commerce was worth over $13bn in 2010 or over $800 for every adult in the country” Mr Fadaghi added. The official launch of Digital Nation will take place at AIMIA’s annual ‘Future of Digital: Forecasts & Predictions for 2011’ event on Friday, December 10th, 2010 at the KPMG Auditorium in Sydney. To purchase Digital nation go to http://www.aimia.com.au/home/business-resources/digital-nation or contact Nina King, AIMIA Sponsorship Coordinator nina@aimia.com.au. Media contacts: Jennifer Jefferys Spectrum Communications 02 9954 3299 aimia@spectrumcomms.com.au Foad Fadaghi Telsyte 02 8297 4651 ffadaghi@telsyte.com.au About AIMIA Founded in 1992, AIMIA is the peak national industry body representing the Digital Media Industry in Australia. AIMIA is devoted to the commercial development of the industry as a whole and to the commercial development of the distinct AIMIA members and AIMIA member groups that comprise the Interactive Media and Digital Sectors. See www.aimia.com.au About Telsyte Telsyte is an independent Australian telecoms, media and ICT analyst firm. Telsyte provides market insights and advisory services to help clients make informed decisions and succeed in the local marketplace. Telsyte is a business unit of Gibson Quai-AAS Consulting, a UXC Limited (ASX:UXC) company. See www.telsyte.com.au.

2010-09-30T04:42:00Z prepare-to-make-a-good-impression-amy-s-coming-back

Sydney, 30 September 2010 – One of last year’s winners had the best job in the world, one winning team was Naked and another was perfectly Frank. Security had to remove a party crasher in a gorilla suit and an award recipient showed off Zoolander-esque moves on the catwalk. Who knows what this year’s AIMIA awards will bring? Anticipation can now start to build as the Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) officially opens its call for entries for the 17th Annual AIMIA Awards this Friday, 1st October. Known affectionately as “The Amys,” the awards celebrate the best work of Australia’s Digital Services and Applications Industry across a broad range of consumer, business, government and not-for-profit categories. “Each year the AIMIA Awards recognise the best digital talent we have in this country,” said Paul McCarthy, AIMIA Awards Judging Chair. “There have been a whole range of fantastic campaigns, projects and services undertaken over the past year and we’re looking forward to receiving the awards entries and judging the best of the best.” The Annual AIMIA Awards are the longest running and most prestigious Awards in Australia’s Digital Industry. Entries for the awards open this Friday 1st October, 2010 and close at 5pm AEDT on Thursday 4th November, 2010. Winners will be announced and celebrated at the 17th Annual AIMIA Awards ceremony in Sydney in March 2011. Sponsorship opportunities are available for a number of AIMIA Awards categories. For more information on sponsorship please contact Nina King at AIMIA. Entries must be submitted via the AIMIA website. For more details and entry criteria, please visit www.aimia.com.au. To keep up to date with awards news follow Amy Ward on Twitter. ends Media contacts: Jennifer Jefferys Spectrum Communications 02 9954 3299 aimia@spectrumcomms.com.au About AIMIA Founded in 1992, AIMIA is the peak national industry body representing the Digital Media Industry in Australia. AIMIA is devoted to the commercial development of the industry as a whole and to the commercial development of the distinct AIMIA members and AIMIA member groups that comprise the Interactive Media and Digital Sectors. See www.aimia.com.au

2006-02-09T23:47:00Z forget-the-academy-awards-everyone-wants-an-amy

Glitz, glamour, purple carpet - if it's excitement you want, then it's the AIMIA awards you need! The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association's (AIMIA) night of nights is fast approaching, with winners of the much coveted 'AMY' award being announced and celebrated at the 12th Annual AIMIA Awards in Adelaide on Friday 3 March. With previous years resulting in a sell out weeks before the event, members are encouraged to get tickets quickly to ensure they do not miss out on the 'Digital Content Industry's Night of Nights' for 2006. "This year, we are encouraging those people attending the awards ceremony to really make a weekend of it," said John Butterworth, CEO AIMIA. "The Fringe Festival, Adelaide Festival of Arts and Barossa Wine Tours are just some of the events that Adelaide has to offer." The Honourable Paul Holloway MLC, South Australian Minister for Industry and Trade, The Honourable Stephanie Key, South Australian Minister for Employment, Training and Further Education and Mr Kym Richardson MP, Federal Member for Kingston (SA) will all be attending the awards ceremony in support of the digital content sector. The South Australian Department of Trade and Economic Development is also actively supporting this year's awards. Since the 11th awards, two new categories have been added to the programme, reflecting the continued growth of the industry itself. The awards provide the opportunity to celebrate the best of the industry and the chance for attendees to not only have fun on the night, but to also experience some of South Australia's excellent recreational activities. Big name supporters include Gold Patron BigPond, Silver Patrons Google, Hill & Knowlton, I-NEX Corporation and WebCentral - all who are back for the third year running. Other partners include Silver Patrons CNET Networks, m.NET Corporation, Vividas, Bronze patrons, Baker & McKenzie and Awards Level Patrons, Kojo Interactive, Kukan Studios, LaVolta, and Viocorp. "We are very excited to see so much support for the awards from members and patrons," said John. Tickets for the awards ceremony can be purchased from the AIMIA website (www.aimia.com.au/awards).

2005-04-14T14:02:00Z australian-interactive-media-industry-association-and-hong-kong-wireless-technology-industry-association-to-sign-mou

The Hong Kong Wireless Technology Industry Association (WTIA) and the Australian Interactive Media Industry Association of Australia will today sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sets forth the framework by which both organisations will jointly promote wireless technology, application and content and build cooperative ties between both regions. The MoU will be signed latertoday during the 1st Hong Kong International Wireless Conference and International ICT Expo 2005. "AIMIA is delighted to forge this new international relationship with fellow industry body the WTIA, especially in such a fast growing and increasingly important industry sector," said Ms Janelle Ledwidge, Export Manager of AIMIA. "This bilateral MoU provides the perfect platform for AIMIA and WTIA members to connect and build trade links, and this is particularly relevant for AIMIA's TradeStart clients as well as our Mobile Content Industry Development Group which is an inclusive unifying voice for Australia's mobile content industry." "WTIA is looking forward to promoting cooperation in wireless technology, application and content development in Hong Kong and Australia," said Mr. John Chiu, Chairman of the Hong Kong Wireless Technology Industry Association. "This new partnership will facilitate trade exchange between our economies and will accentuate the sharing of industry and market knowledge." The MoU will facilitate the strong desire of both parties to promote wireless technology and create business opportunities. Both organisations will share knowledge, research and data of their respective wireless industries, organise joint promotional events such as trade missions, conferences and exhibitions, and facilitate trade exchange and technology transfer. ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members through the TradeStart program in partnership with Austrade. See: www.aimia.com.au ABOUT WTIA Hong Kong Wireless Technology Industry Association (WTIA), a not-for-profit corporation registered in Hong Kong, is aimed at promoting the development, usage and awareness of wireless technology applications and enhancing the communications and partnership between companies within the wireless technology industries. It has strong membership bases and represents wireless application providers, mobile content providers, mobile network operators, mobile device manufacturers, hardware / software vendors and distributors, system integrators, etc. See:www.hkwtia.org.

2005-03-15T19:47:00Z aimia-member-takes-interactive-games-to-europe

The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) has congratulated one of its leading South Australian members, Imagination Entertainment, on its recent win of the rights to develop and market DVD games based on new and classic Disney properties in all European markets. Through an agreement between Australian-owned Imagination, Hasbro Europe and Disney Consumer Products Europe, the existing Hasbro-Imagination DVD partnership will now be responsible for bringing some of the most iconic characters in entertainment history to life through the medium of DVD-based games. In 2004, Imagination formed an exclusive licensing partnership to develop and distribute DVD games with Hasbro Europe. The three-year agreement with Disney Consumer Products Europe is forecast to generate wholesale revenue of over $30 million Euros for the Hasbro Imagination partnership. The announcement follows in the footsteps of Imagination Entertainment winning the Best Game category at the 11th AIMIA Awards held on February 4 for its MGM Screen Test title. "Australia is a leader in the realm of interactive media and Imagination's win with Disney Consumer Products Europe is clear proof of this," said AIMIA CEO, John Butterworth. "South Australia, in particular, is proving to be a real hotbed of talent, reflected in our decision to hold the 12th Annual AIMIA Awards in Adelaide next year." Imagination CEO, Shane Yeend said: "We are the worldwide market leaders in DVD games and have achieved this from Adelaide. There is a great deal to be said about Australians punching above their weight and we are proud to be part the Australian interactive media industry. " "DVD games have revolutionised the board game industry, we have given the board game a home theatre make over by adding the magic of television and making the game truly interactive, and creating a whole new way to play." ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members through the TradeStart program in partnership with Austrade.

2005-02-07T20:09:00Z south-australia-to-host-12th-aimia-awards-in-2006

Australia's leading industry body for interactive media, the Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA), has announced Adelaide, South Australia as the 2006 venue for the 12th Annual AIMIA Awards ceremony. The announcement was made by AIMIA's National President, Sandra Davey, as AIMIA honoured 20 winners at its 11th Annual AIMIA Awards at a ceremony heldFriday evening at the Metro Theatre, Sydney, and is sure to bring a new spark to an already bustling city in 12 months' time. Ms Davey said that South Australia will bring a unique flavour to the awards, allowing for a different audience to experience this wonderful event. "It's great to see the awards moving to a new location," said Ms Davey. "The high calibre of entrants from this year's ceremony has shown that next year's awards will be even more hotly contested as companies vie to better each other through their respective achievements." The President of AIMIA's South Australian Chapter, Steve Watt, has also said that the Adelaide AIMIA awards will emphasise AIMIA's profile as a truly national association in a progressive industry sector characterised as much by arts and entertainment as by technology. "The AIMIA Awards will be great for our local industry - throwing a national spotlight on innovative and world class South Australian companies, raising the profile of our industry in the community and local government and providing opportunities for students and local business to get involved in the longest-running interactive media awards in the world," said Mr Watt. The awards will also mark the emergence and maturing of the mobile content industry with fully sponsored live audience access to a showcase of finalists and local 3G content via the mNet corporation 3G network. "Following the success of events like the World Congress in IT we're pleased that our own patch in the industry in South Australia, interactive media, continues to grow and receive recognition," said Mr Watt. AIMIA's 11th Annual Awards program reflects the success of the Australian interactive digital content and development industries, together with AIMIA's leadership role. This year saw a dramatic increase in entries - up 60% on last year alone - and presented judges with a difficult time as they reviewed some of the most competitive examples of Australian work in the history of AIMIA. Hosted by celebrity Adam Spencer, the ceremony sold out weeks ago and tonight attracted 500 members of the Australian Interactive Media Industry, as well as leading dignitaries including the Hon. Helen Coonan, Federal Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts. The Minister formally opened the Awards with a speech detailing the importance of the interactive media industry for the Australian economy and how the country is at the forefront of digital content creation. "The 11th Annual Awards were the most successful to date and attendance at the event was staggering," said John Butterworth, AIMIA CEO. "Everyone had a fabulous night and I think that this is due to the relevance of the Awards to everyone in our industry. This year boasted so many competitive entries and there is little doubt that it has highlighted the industry's fast growth and increased importance in everyday life." Among the 20 winners was South Australian firm Imagination Entertainment, with their MGM Screen test DVD Game entry taking home the award for Best Game for 2005. To find out more information about the winning entries of the 11th Annual AIMIA Awards, visit: www.aimia.com.au. ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members through the TradeStart program in partnership with Austra

2005-01-31T18:54:00Z aimia-announces-raft-of-supporters-for-2005

The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) has announced the 2005 patronage of Google, I-Nex, Hill & Knowlton, Marconi, WebCentral, LG, LaVolta and Viocorp for its year-long program of Awards and industry development activities designed to further the knowledge bank of the local interactive media industry. "With the backing and support of so many well-known brands, AIMIA is looking forward to a very successful 2005," said AIMIA CEO, JohnButterworth. "Joining BigPond, our new group of patrons will not only show their support for the 11th AIMIA Awards next month, but all the events and seminars we conduct throughout the year in consultation with the interactive media sector." SILVER LEVEL PATRONS FOR 2005 ARE GOOGLE, I-NEX, HILL & KNOWLTON AND MARCONI Google Google's innovative search technologies connect millions of people around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by Stanford Ph.D. students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a top web property in all major global markets. Google's targeted advertising programme, which is the largest and fastest growing in the industry, provides businesses of all sizes with measurable results, while enhancing the overall web experience for users. Google is headquartered in Silicon Valley, Californiawith offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. For more information, visit www.google.com.au. I-Nex is an Adelaide-based Australian information technology company. It provides personal, understandable and dependable business solutions with capabilities thatcustom business management systems,software development, network management and website design. Hill & Knowlton is one of Australia's leading communication companies providing marketing and public relations services to a range of national and international clients. Hill & Knowlton is a full-service agency offering clients a range of services including corporate positioning, consumer and business-to-business marketing, product launches, stakeholder communication, government relations and investor relations. Marconi is a global telecommunications company which has been at the front-line of modern communications technology for over 100 years, since Guglielmo Marconi sent the first international wireless message form Wales to Newfoundland in 1901 and launched the age of radio. Today Marconi is leading the advance to broadband - partnering with emerging and established carriers to deploy the high-bandwidth broadband infrastructure and high-speed, last-mile access solutions vital for profitable participation in the rapidly evolving network- and Internet-centric Information Age. BRONZE LEVEL PATRONS FOR 2005 ARE WEBCENTRAL AND LG Baker & McKenzie - Baker and McKenzie's strong information technology and communications practice group provides expertise across a wide range of areas including IT, systems and software development, network security, e-commerce, telecommunications, outsourcing, licensing, privacy, procurement, new media and broadcasting related issues.The firm specialises in the areas of information technology & communications (IT/C), intellectual property, construction, commercial real estate, tax, energy and climate change (environment), trade practices, banking & finance and corporate including private equity, mergers and acquisitions.Baker & McKenzie is a premier Australian law firm with more than 40 years experience in the local market. Its offices in Sydney and Melbourne are part of the Baker & McKenzie global network that comprises 69 offices in 38 jurisdictions, speaking more than 60 languages. LG was launched in Australia in 1997. An innovative product range, supported by extensive marketing campaigns has led to strong sales growth with the company having over 250 employees nationwide with branch offices in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. In line with its global philosophy, LG Electronics Australia sets new benchmarks in digital and marketing innovation. WebCentral is one of the largest web and application hosting companies in the Asia Pacific region, offering shared, dedicated and enterprise-grade managed solutions. Winner of the Microsoft Global Hosting Provider of the Year Award in 2004, WebCentral has a very strong partner reseller program that boasts many of Australia's premier interactive developers within its ranks. AWARDS LEVEL PATRONS FOR 2005 ARE LAVOLTA AND VIOCORP LaVolta is a specialist Executive recruitment firm that looks after the Digital Markets. The Australian partner to the world wide search and consulting network of Aravati Global LaVolta has an international network that gives clients and candidates access to 12 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. Viocorp is a streaming media company specialising in the production, broadcast and distribution of video and multimedia content over the internet. "We welcome the support of each and every patron and thank them for both their foresight and belief in the local interactive media industry," said Mr Butterworth. "When I look at this list of names, I see some of the most progressive and engaging Australian businesses in their respective fields and I feel this is further highlighted in their support of AIMIA." ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members.

2005-01-20T16:23:00Z join-local-content-creators-on-a-mobile-journey

A national initiative exploring the creative potential of mobile devices is underway, with the Mobile Journeys Consortium presenting a range of activities through January and February. At the heart of the initiative, which includes workshops, live events and exhibitions, is the Mobile Journeys Professional Forum, set to be held in Sydney on February 3 and in Melbourne on February 10. These forums feature international guests such as John Evans and Andrew Paterson (Aware, Finland); Fee Plumley and Ben Jones (The Phone Book, UK); and local experts and commentators including Shane Williamson (Hutchison 3), Mark Pesce (Author), Todd Martin (Amnesia), amongst many others. The forums are shaping as must-attend events for anyone working in, or even with a strong interest in, the mobile platform. "The advent of content consumption over mobile has the potential to mirror the growth and impact of theInternet if properly handled and nurtured," said program director Esther Bailey."Accessing internet-style services via a mobile device has the ability to transform people's lives, media consumption and social behaviours, but as ever with new technologies, success is not a given.Mobile Journeys intends to provide a forum in which to explore the creative and commercial possibilities, as well as to confront some of the limitations and hurdles. We need to share our knowledge and experiences if we are to create an environment of maximum innovation and inspiration for our content development and artistic communities." Work created through the initiative will be showcased online at www.mobilejourneys.com and through a WAP site specifically designed for the Mobile Journeys program. At present, the first Mobile Journeys masterclass - featuring 10 noted new media artists - has seen participants engaging with the technology; some even with projects already well underway. There are also plans for real world exhibitions later in 2005. "Digital content provides excellent opportunities for this country's future success since it is so readily exportable," said John Butterworth, AIMIA CEO. "AIMIA has already helped a number of members in this area, including Kukan Studio, a mobile based games company that went international after receiving support from AIMIA's TradeStart export assistance program. Mobile Journeys represents an extension of that industry commitment and illustrates the great work emerging from AIMIA's newly formed Mobile Content Industry Development Group." For details on Mobile Journeys program, please visit www.mobilejourneys.com The Mobile Journeys project is produced in association with the Australia Council, the Australian Government's arts funding and advisory body, through its Policy, Communications and Planning Division. The Mobile Journeys Consortium is made up of AIMIA, dLux Screen Media Arts, the Australian Network for Art and Technology, mNet Corporation and the ABC. ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members through the TradeStart program in partnership with Austrade.

2005-01-18T20:15:00Z bigpond-signs-on-as-aimia-major-supporter-for-2005

SYDNEY,18 January 2005 - The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA), charged with representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content sectors, has announced the support of BigPond as a Gold Patron for 2005. "With BigPond working with the Interactive Media industry at so many levels, patronage of AIMIA allows it to unify its presence in the market at a "whole of industry" level," said AIMIA CEO, John Butterworth. "This patronage builds upon BigPond's support for AIMIA during 2004, and highlights its support for the overall sector." BigPond Managing Director Justin Milne said today; "BigPond, as an online content pacesetter, is passionate about the future of interactive media and we are proud to be working with AIMIA to help promote the growth of the industry in Australia." As a Gold Sponsor, BigPond will take a very active role in supporting and shaping the industry in conjunction with AIMIA. It will attend the 11th Annual AIMIA Awards - the longest running interactive media awards in Australia - where it will present the Cross-Platform Content/Content Integration category. The Awards will be held in Sydney on February 4. "We welcome BigPond's ongoing support of AIMIA and, by association, the industry we represent," said Mr Butterworth. "With such a business on board, it's truly going to be a great 2005, kicking-off with our awards on February 4th and then moving into a substantial program of industry development activities - all designed to further the knowledge and abilities of the local interactive industry." ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members through the TradeStart program in partnership with Austrade.

2004-12-13T14:23:00Z local-digital-content-creators-invited-to-take-a-mobile-journey

The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA) (www.aimia.com.au) has announced the launch of Mobile Journeys, a national initiative aimed at exploring the creative potential of mobile devices. Working with a number of key partners from both industry and the arts, Mobile Journeys will roll out a programme of events through January and February 2005. These include the FutureScreen Mobile and miniSeries Master Classes in mobile content development for artists and creatives, community workshops and professional forums in Sydney,Melbourne and Adelaide. "This is such an exciting time in the whole mobile space. The next few years we will see a significant shift from pure voice to voice and data consumption - the latter of which depends upon exciting, innovative content," said Esther Bailey, Mobile Journeys project director and AIMIA board member. "Currently, a lot of the mobile content out there is pretty utilitarian. Our intention with Mobile Journeys is to demystify the creation process and encourage our best and brightest minds to start working and playing with mobile." Work created through this program will be showcased online at www.mobilejourneys.com and through a WAP site specifically designed for the Mobile Journeys program. There are also plans for real world exhibitions later 2005. "Digital content provides excellent opportunities for this country's future success since it is so readily exportable," said John Butterworth, AIMIA CEO. "AIMIA has already helped a number of members in this area, including Kukan Studio, a mobile based games company that went international after receiving support from AIMIA's TradeStart export assistance program. Mobile Journeys represents an extension of that industry commitment and illustrates the great work emerging from AIMIA's newly formed Mobile Content Industry Development Group." Mobile Journeys will also go beyond simple content outcomes as it explores new narrative forms and models of collaboration too, said Ms Bailey. "Our speakers will see to it that participants are challenged in all the right ways! Our project partners and supporters bring a range of fresh perspectives and ideas to the table and make this consortium approach unique and well skilled to stimulate the sector. Partners include; the Australia Council, ABC New Media and Digital Services, dlux media arts, ANAT, mNet Corporation, Adelaide Film Festival 2005 and the South Australian Film Corporation," said Ms Bailey. For details on Mobile Journeys program, including registration for Master Classes and professional forums, please visit www.mobilejourneys.com ABOUT AIMIA AIMIA is the peak body representing the Interactive Media and Digital Content industry. Founded in 1992, AIMIA promotes growth and success in the Australian interactive media industry and its services include acting as a lobby group, providing industry news, hosting professional functions, and organising its annual Interactive Media Awards. AIMIA members are drawn from the broad spectrum of the Australian IT industry, including producers and developers of digital content and applications for interactive platforms such as broadband and narrowband internet services, interactive television, wireless, CD/DVD media and games consoles. AIMIA also delivers export assistance to members through the TradeStart program in partnership with Austrade.