The New South Wales (NSW) Government has launched a public consultation to develop the state’s first Digital Inclusion Strategy, aimed at improving digital access and equity for all communities.
The strategy seeks to address the digital divide experienced by regional, rural, and remote areas, as well as socio-economically disadvantaged and culturally diverse communities, people with disability, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
According to the Australian Digital Inclusion Index 2023, between 24% and 42% of these groups are highly excluded from digital services. The consultation aims to gather feedback from community members, stakeholders, and industry experts to shape the strategy and accompanying Action Plan. The NSW Telco Authority will lead the development of the strategy, which will build on existing government and community-led initiatives. The goal is to ensure everyone in NSW can access and use digital connectivity and technologies regardless of age, background, or location.
Community members can participate in the public consultation and learn more about the NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy. The NSW Telco Authority’s Digital Connectivity Index also allows people to compare digital connectivity in their area to others.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib, emphasised the importance of digital inclusion, saying, “We want to work towards a future where everyone in NSW can access and use digital connectivity and technologies.”
The consultation is open until Friday the 19th of July, and can be accessed through the NSW Digital Have Your Say strategy.