In 1984 when the Apple Macintosh computer was first released, Apple entered into a partnership with nine Australian universities to form the Apple University Consortium (Australasia). At the heart of the relationship was the ability for departments, staff and students of the universities to obtain Apple technology at reduced prices and to enable development of innovative solutions using the Macintosh. The concept of sharing information and experiences, and the ability to foster educational development activities were the major motivating factors.