A spatially enabled government manages its information and processes using spatial concepts and technologies. The vision gained traction in the early 2000s and has been the focus of international forums including GSDI and PCGIAP. This paper aims to review the status of the vision by presenting the results of qualitative and quantitative studies undertaken into the spatial capacity of the Victorian Government. The studies sampled a number of core government functions and focused on the related spatial policies, legislation, institutional arrangements, human recourses, information systems and spatial technologies.

It is found that Victoria has a strong background in SDI and spatial policies and had some early success in implementation. It was an early leader in spatial information provision; however, these early systems are now dating rapidly and reassessment is needed to ensure most appropriate further development. Equally, updates to existing cadastral/registry systems have improved process efficiency and accessibility; however, it is highly doubtful whether these digitized systems would be suitable for underpinning other government activities. Victoria’s institutional arrangements are also encumbered with historical legacies: a large-scale re-organization would be costly and unlikely to significantly improve spatial enablement.

The paper concludes that it is still unclear whether existing systems are capable of underpinning the spatial enablement of the entire government. Whilst, web mapping services are prevalent in Victoria’s land management systems; strong leadership, collaborative approaches and more investment is required to see these spread into other government functions.