MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, 1997 DEC 10 (NB) -- By Stuart Kennedy, Computer Daily News. Victoria flicked the switch on its new "maxi network" yesterday, which allows punters to transact State Government business online through the Internet and 22 maxi kiosks around the state.

Multimedia Minister and Treasurer Alan Stockdale said Victorians will be able to register vehicles, order birth certificates, book driver licence tests and pay bills via the new network. No longer will people have to travel to the agency they want to deal with, stand in a queue or even visit during business hours, he said.

Agencies involved with the project so far include the Victorian Electoral Commission, Yarra Valley Water, Eastern Energy, VicRoads, Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, and the Moira and Manningham councils.

Reported by Newsbytes News Network http://www.newsbytes.com.