FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
How to find the right product?
There are currently three methods to find data products
1. Location Search
The search tool at the top of the page is the fastest way to find available products —perfect if you're unsure about finding the location from a map!
Simply enter a location name into the search bar and it will scan all product
descriptions for matches. (That’s why our product descriptions include a long
list of names.)
Keep in mind that while this search should guide you to the right product page, you’ll still need to confirm whether the data covers the exact area you need.
2. Search Our Collections
We’re continuously growing our Collections list to help you navigate larger areas before selecting a specific product tile.
For example, if your area of interest is the Shoalhaven Coast, select the Shoalhaven Collection to explore all relevant product tiles.
3. Products Page
The Products Page lists every product tile in alphabetical order, based on a unique identifier within each tile.
This method is best suited for users who already know the exact dataset name—otherwise, using Location Search or Collections is often more efficient.
We’re working on new ways to improve product discovery as we expand our catalogue.
General Questions
What is a Digital Elevation Model DEM?
A DEM is a representation of the Earth's surface that captures elevation data in a structured format. It provides a bare-earth topographic surface, meaning it excludes features like trees, buildings, and other objects. DEMs are commonly used in terrain analysis, flood modelling,
geospatial mapping, and various environmental and engineering applications.
They are typically generated using lidar, satellite imagery, or aerial photogrammetry, ensuring high accuracy and detailed elevation insights.
How is your elevation data sourced and processed?
Our data is sourced from numerous sources primarily Commonwealth, State and Territories mapping agencies. Each product’s metadata includes detailed source information. We process the source data with the aim to retain as much data integrity as possible. We limit clipping and combination to a minimum to maintain quality and reproject only once.
What file formats are available for download?
Our Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Products are all provided in GeoTIFF format. GeoTIFF is a widely used file format for storing geospatial raster data. It extends the standard TIFF format by embedding geographic metadata, such as coordinate reference systems, map projections, and spatial resolution, directly within the file.
This makes GeoTIFF ideal for GIS applications, remote sensing, and digital elevation models, as it ensures precise georeferencing without requiring separate metadata files.
GeoTIFF files are compatible with most GIS software and can store multi-band imagery, elevation data, and other raster datasets. They support various compression methods to optimise storage while maintaining data
integrity.
Product Information
What resolution do your elevation models offer?
Our first product range is exclusively focussed on providing 1-metre resolution DEMs.
Our future plans include developing 2-metre and 5-metre resolution products and developing contour and contour-poly products.
What geodetic reference system is used?
All products are supplied as GDA2020 as standard. If you require a different standard, please contact us for possible alternatives.
Is the data pre-processed and ready to use?
Yes, our aim is to make sure you’re ready to work straight away. All you’ll need to do is unzip the data, save it to your system and you’re ready to go.
Downloading & Usage
Downloading
& Usage
How do I download my purchased dataset?
You will receive a download link once your purchase has processed through the checkout. You will also receive an email with the same data download link to keep for later.
What software do I need to open and use the files?
Primarily this data is developed for use in a Geographic Information System (including ESRI ARC, QGIS, FME). Other software that can handle spatial raster data may be able to read and utilise the data.
Although the data can present as an image as it is a .tif file, it is unlikely that loading it into an image processing software (like Photoshop) would be useful.
How big is the download files?
A tile completely covered will be just under 3Gb. We have worked to identify the right file size against the best area of data.
Is there a limit on the number of downloads per purchase?
Yes, we limit the number of downloads per product to two. However, we know that sometimes accidents happen, or files get lost between devices.
If this occurs, please contact us with your order number and we can reset your download attempts.
Technical & Compatibility
What GIS software is compatible with your datasets?
We have tested the data with common GIS software packages.
How do I integrate the data into my workflow?
You should be able to integrate the data into your workflows as we have implemented distinct naming conventions the means each product is unique but also logical.
Are there any known limitations or gaps in the datasets?
There are gaps and holes that occur in some of the datasets.
This is why we have created a Metadata Index polygon shapefile dataset which is included in your product and identifies any known gaps.
Most commonly these are data holes within some data surveys or data gaps which occur where adjoining source data overlap.
There is also potential for slight height
alignment between adjoining source datasets based on the outputs from the
relevant elevation surveys. Our investigations to date have found very minor differences (ie in the order of 5-10cm). The differences tend to occur between older source dataset sources abutting newer data sources. This is likely a result of improved capture technology between surveys.
Licensing & Legal
What are the usage rights and licensing restrictions?
Each product includes a full legal license file, outlining permitted uses and restrictions. The license allows you to utilise the dataset as needed, but with specific limitations, including:
· The data cannot be distributed in a way that enables reverse engineering or reconstruction by others.
· You cannot integrate the dataset into a web service or share it with third parties.
· The license prohibits using the data to
create and sell competing elevation model products.
These restrictions are in place to protect data integrity and ensure fair use while allowing you to maximise its value within your own projects.
Can I use the data for commercial applications?
Yes you can! You’re welcome to utilise the data to develop new and wonderful derivative products (within the bounds of the licencing restrictions).
We encourage innovation and would love to hear how you are using our products to expand your own capabiltiies.
Do you provide attribution guidelines?
Basic Attribution Requirements
· Clearly state the source of the elevation data, including the provider or organisation.
· Include any required citation format
specified in the license agreement.
· If applicable, mention the date of data
acquisition to ensure transparency.
Usage in Publications & Reports
· When using the data in research papers, presentations, or reports, provide a proper reference in the bibliography or
footnotes.
· If the dataset is modified or processed,
indicate that changes were made while still crediting the original source.
Support & Custom Requests
Do you offer custom dataset compilations or specialised
processing?
Yes, we do, please contact us to discuss your needs.
What if I need a dataset not currently available?
Please reach out and we may be able to prioritise its development and release.
How can I contact support if I encounter an issue?
Please use contact link on the website, or email support@elev.com.au
Payment & Refunds
What payment methods do you accept?
We utilise the Shopify payments platform as it is safe and secure
· Shopify’s built-in payment processor, allowing businesses to accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and UnionPay.
· Supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay for faster checkout.
Can I request a refund if the data doesn't meet my needs?
Yes,. We conform to Australian Consumer Law. Please read our refund policy on the website and then contact us to arrange a refund if you’re issue aligns with the policy.
Are there any subscription or bulk purchase options?
At this point we have not yet developed a subscription or bulk purchase option, though may consider it in the future. Let us know if this is something you would like to discuss further.