Advancing digital inclusion for first nations: Advisory group gathers for progress talks

The Albanese Government’s Digital Inclusion Advisory Group met on 11 July in Sydney, Australia, to talk with experts and discuss ideas for advancing Target 17 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Target 17 aims to ensure equal digital inclusion for Frist Nations Australians by 2026. The discussion addressed current project gaps and relationships across sectors such as government, companies, and private groups.

The Advisory Group’s meeting focused on the outcomes of their initial engagement with communities and stakeholders, highlighting gaps in existing efforts and the importance of ‘ensuring the enhancement of communication across government, industry, and the not-for-profit sector.’ The Group reaffirmed its commitment to place-based solutions as the foundation for providing First Nations Australians with affordable and reliable connectivity while emphasizing the significance of improving digital skills to ensure safe internet navigation. The proposals will be included in the Advisory Group’s initial report to the Australian Government, and these include the following:

• digital mentoring in remote communities,
• enhancement of support for First Nations communities to access connectivity grant opportunities,
• trialing emerging technologies in remote communities, and
• enhancement of the national collection and utilization of data.’