NSW launches first comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy
The New South Wales (NSW) Telco Authority is spearheading the development of the state's first comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy. This initiative will build on current efforts and establish a cohesive framework for collaborative partnerships across government sectors.
At present, NSW boasts several digital inclusion projects facilitated by both government and community-led entities. However, a lack of coordination between NSW and federal agencies has led to potential duplication and fragmented investment decisions, the organisation states. Existing efforts involve state government agencies, local councils, industry, and community organisations, yet there remains no central mechanism to unify or direct these initiatives.
The new Digital Inclusion Strategy seeks to address these issues by providing a coordinated, centralised approach to identify, deliver, and fund digital inclusion programmes and initiatives. The goals include streamlining efforts to ensure efficient resource use and fostering a more inclusive digital environment across NSW.
The NSW Government is extending an invitation to local communities, industries, community organisations, and government agencies to help shape the state's first Digital Inclusion Strategy. Digital inclusion encompasses equitable opportunities for individuals to access, afford, and engage with digital technologies, services, and online resources.
Some demographics, including people living in regional, rural, and remote areas, socio-economically disadvantaged groups, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, people with disabilities, gender diverse individuals, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, face lower levels of digital inclusion. The recent report, Measuring Australia's Digital Divide – Australian Digital Inclusion Index 2023, indicated that between 24 and 42% of these groups suffer substantial exclusion from digital services.
In the initial consultation phase, community members can provide feedback on the Digital Inclusion Strategy discussion paper. Targeted stakeholder meetings, interviews, and focus groups will further inform the strategy. The resulting Digital Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan will outline how future initiatives are identified, implemented, and funded, building on existing government and community-led programmes across NSW.
The NSW Telco Authority will lead the strategy and its related initiatives, as part of the broader Connectivity Strategy aimed at bridging the digital divide for communities with limited access to digital services.
Jihad Dib, Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, underscored the importance of inclusivity in the digital age. "In an increasingly digital world, with a shift towards online service delivery, including digital identity, healthcare, banking, and social care, it is critical that no one gets left behind," Dib stated. "We want to work towards a future where everyone in NSW, regardless of their age, background, or location, can access and use digital connectivity and technologies," he added. Dib also emphasised the importance of public participation in the consultation process to ensure the strategy meets the needs of all citizens.
Data from the 2023 Australian Digital Inclusion Index (ADII) provides key insights into the current state of digital inclusion in Australia. Nearly one in four Australians is digitally excluded, considering factors like access, affordability, and digital ability. About 10% of the population is highly digitally excluded, unable to access or afford reliable internet connections and digital devices, thereby significantly limiting their participation in social, economic, and civic life. The index also revealed that people aged 65-74 scored 12.1 points below the national digital inclusion average, while those over 75 scored 24.6 points below the average.
Digital exclusion is also associated with economic disadvantages and cost-of-living pressures. Almost 30% of low-middle-income households in NSW reported needing to limit mobile phone use due to financial stress, and only 57% of households in the lowest income quintile have internet access, compared to 82% in the highest income quintile.
The NSW Government encourages public involvement in the consultation process. Citizens can provide their input and learn more about the NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy through the state's dedicated consultation platform.
