The Online and Communications Council (the Council) adopted the following revised terms of reference in December 2008.

1. To provide leadership to all areas of government, industry and the community at large in promoting and facilitating the provision, access, development, production and use of information and communication technologies (ICT). Priority areas for the Council include:
   
   
   • broadband availability, take-up and usage
   • regional and indigenous communications, including digital inclusion
   • digital economy
   • online environment, including online security and privacy
   • e-government
   • ICT capacity, capability and skills
   • environmental matters
   • implications of technology developments.
     
     
2. To provide a forum for Australian, state and territory government Ministers and local government to consider, collaborate and reach agreement on national strategic approaches to online and communication services.
3. To actively liaise with other ministerial councils and other bodies on matters relevant to the activities of the Council.