The First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group has released its initial report today.
The report recommends a range of practical measures to support greater digital inclusion for First Nations people, in line with Target 17 in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Target 17 is aimed at ensuring First Nations people have access to information and services so they can participate in informed decision-making regarding their own lives.
Digital inclusion is a deeply complex, but critically important issue. Digital inclusion provides a range of benefits, including supporting economic participation, access to government services, social connectedness, and access to entertainment and leisure activities.
Recognising this, the report provides a basis for the Australian Government's continued investment and collaboration with First Nations people around 3 key issues:
- the delivery of targeted measures to improve access to connectivity, making sure it is affordable and fit for purpose, and that First Nations people are aware of their connectivity options and have the digital skills they need to be safe online;
- improving the national collection and use of data so that we can better assess the impact of measures delivered in community, as well as broader progress towards Target 17;
- ensuring genuine engagement and collaboration with First Nations people and communities, as well as supporting their access to government programs and opportunities.
The recommendations in the report were informed by extensive engagement with stakeholders and First Nations communities, as well as the goals and priorities set out in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap and the First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan 2023-2026, released earlier this year.
The report is being considered by the government as it continues to work in partnership with First Nations people to remove the barriers to full participation in our digital society.
For more information on the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group, visit http://www.digitalinclusion.gov.au/.
Find out more
Image
Co-researcher for the Mapping the Digital Gap research project Mel Langdon, using the CAT mobile hotspot in Yuelamu, which enables access to the mobile signal from Yuendumu 43km away.