Accessing Spatial Data

In reality, the task of accessing spatial data can be quite daunting (and time consuming) as the range of avenues to access spatial data continue to grow.  To simplify the task of getting access to data, the WALIS Office has provided some useful information to guide you through this maze.

1. Find out if a spatial dataset exists.     

You can search Interragator+ by keyword, spatial area or date.  Interragator+ is a directory of metadata (metadata is descriptive information about the content, context and characteristics of the spatial data) for Western Australia.  If you are looking for data in other parts of Australia you can search the ASDD (Australian Spatial Data Directory).  For other data outside of Australia a good starting point is the Geospatial One Stop Shop (GOSS).

2. Get your spatial data.

There are two methods of getting access to spatial data:

• Online electronic web service delivery (Web Map Services or WMS - raster, and Web Feature Services or WFS - vector) (for a WA example see SLIP).
• Physical acquisition of data from it's source (on CD/DVD or by email/FTP etc...).

For the physical acquisition of data for WA government data, it is necessary to complete either a commercial or non-commercial license agreement.

3. View spatial data in your software.

If you have acquired data physically it should be readily loaded into your GIS software of choice.  The Interragator+ will provide a link to any web services published so you can use the services directly in your software.  For WA, you can also use SLIP data services directly. 

4. Still can't find the spatial data you want?

If you are still having trouble locating the data you require, see if these access initiatives being undertaken by the State of Western Australia can assist, or please contact the WALIS office at walis@walis.wa.gov.au or on 9273-7046.