A roadmap for First Nations digital inclusion

Digital inclusion is often described as the ability to confidently get online and use the internet safely. This includes:

• having access to the internet and a device (laptop, computer or smart phone)
• being able to afford a good internet connection and an appropriate device
• knowing how to use the internet for things that are important to you, such as accessing government services, doing homework, online shopping, connecting with friends and family, on-country employment and for streaming entertainment.

The digital divide in Australia is significant, with First Nations Australians on average experiencing:

• poorer access to the internet
• higher costs relative to income to access the internet
• lower levels of digital ability.

The initial report of the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group, released in October 2023, outlines a number of practical measures to support digital inclusion in the short-term in line with Target 17 in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

We are seeking feedback on the key considerations that should be included in a long-term roadmap outlining the path towards First Nations digital inclusion.

We want to hear your views on:

• the ability for First Nations people to access the internet
• the affordability of internet services for First Nations people
• the ability for First Nations people to get online and use the internet safely
• the appropriateness of government and industry services and products for First Nations people
• the sustainability of the First Nations media and broadcasting sector
• consumer protections for First Nations Australians with respect to telecommunications
• the use and application of new technologies in remote contexts
• data on digital inclusion
• other concerns/issues in the digital inclusion, broadcasting and media spaces.

The Advisory Group’s long-term roadmap will help inform government and industry on how they can work with First Nations people and communities on practical measures to address the digital divide.

The Advisory Group is also seeking feedback on the design of measures announced in the 2024–25 Budget, namely:

• free community Wi-Fi in remote communities through a contestable program
• a First Nations digital support hub
• a network of digital mentors
• improving the national collection of data on First Nations digital inclusion.

More information on these measures can be found in the slide deck linked below.

Relevant documentation

• Document

  First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper (498.81 KB)
  • Document

    First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper—Simplified (322.02 KB)
  • Document

    First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper—Simplified Eastside Kriol (325.15 KB)
  • Document

    First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper—Simplified Kimberley Kriol (320.93 KB)
  • Document

    First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper—Simplified Pitjantjatjara (328.58 KB)
  • Document

    First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper—Simplified Yolngu Matha (326.32 KB)
  • Document

    First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap—Discussion Paper—Simplified Yumplatok (317.14 KB)
• Document

  First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group First Nations Digital Inclusion Measures—5 June 2024 (667.38 KB)