Community views sought for free Wi-Fi program in First Nations communities

The Albanese Labor Government is seeking input from communities to help bridge the digital divide for First Nations people living in regional and remote communities.

The $20 million First Nations Community Wi-Fi Program is improving digital connectivity through free community-wide internet access. 

The Albanese Government has opened an online Project Noticeboard where suggestions for potential new projects and locations can be submitted. 

Community organisations, government representatives and parliamentarians are encouraged to work alongside First Nations communities to suggest potential new projects.

The grant opportunity will open for applications next year. The Project Noticeboard will remain open for the first two weeks of the application period.

Bridging the digital divide is supported by the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group which is providing strong advocacy and advice.

The Advisory Group’s initial report to Government helped to inform the First Nations Community Wi-Fi Program, a First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors, as well as improved national data collection.

This is important work to progress Target 17 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which aims for equal levels of digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by 2026.

To view the Project Noticeboard or to make a submission, please visit: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/first-nations-digital-inclusion/first-nations-community-wi-fi-program-project-noticeboard

For more information on the First Nations Digital Inclusion measures visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/fndi   

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“Digital connectivity is essential for all Australians regardless of where they live. It provides access to critical services, connection with family and friends, and better education, training and job opportunities.

“The Albanese Government is bridging the digital connectivity divide for people living in regional and remote and First Nations communities.

“We are investing $20 million to deliver free community Wi-Fi to more First Nation communities. The Project Noticeboard enables local communities who may be eligible to have their voice heard.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy:

“Free and reliable Wi-Fi is a gamechanger for remote First Nations communities, which remain some of Australia’s most digitally isolated. 

“Through this program, communities facing digital disadvantage will have access to greater social and economic opportunities that come from being online.

“We want to hear about potential projects and locations that will benefit from this funding – I encourage First Nations communities to share their views.”