TV exec named first CEO of ISOC-AU

The Internet Society of Australia (ISOC-AU) has attracted a former senior television executive to become its first ever chief executive.

Laurie Patton

Former Foxtel and Seven Network executive Laurie Patton has been appointed to the role following a review of the society’s operations, which aimed to identify its key priorities.

ISOC-AU - which represents internet users and provides advice on internet development and public policy - said as a result of the review its focus would now more specifically be on contributing to public discussion around online copyright, privacy, security and net neutrality.

ISOC-AU said Patton’s immediate priority was to engage with government and industry on internet issues “through the provision of rigorous technical and financial analysis”.

“There has never been a more important time for the Internet Society to make a contribution. There is so much confusion and ill-informed comment that needs to be countered with expert advice and reliable data," Patton said in a statement.

“Our members hold significant roles in internet-related organisations nationally and overseas. This means we are ideally placed to lead the debate about how to best develop the Internet for the benefit of all Australians."

ISOC-AU lists Deakin University's IT services division, Sophos, the Australian Computer Society, AARNet, and Optus among its members.

In addition to his roles at Foxtel and Seven, Patton is a former journalist and was the founding CEO of Sydney community TV broadcaster, TVS.