STORY:
Australia Ready for Y2K

Government report says country is ready to handle any eventualities

Australia is ready for any eventualities that may resulted from computer glitches on New Year's Eve, say experts at a computer Y2K conference in Sydney. Besides some minor problems in regard to phone services, train services and trade, speakers added in interesting twist by saying Australia could actually benefit economically from the issue.

The biggest issue according to the speakers is people's behavior getting out of control regarding phones and the Internet on New Year's Eve. Officials fear too many people will make phone calls at midnight to see if the phone system is working and that could result in failures.

Rail networks in Melbourne and western Australia have decided not to run trains around midnight to prevent any problems which according to the experts will elevate commuter's fears.

Officials believe Australia's preparations could be an advantage for the country in the eyes of the world. If Australia can demonstrate that it's prepared, one expert believes the country will be "one hell of a player in the digital economy in the next millennium".

DATE: 8/19/99

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