Bridging the Digital Divide: Progress and Hurdles in Connecting Remote Australian Communities
Despite significant advances in infrastructure, a new study reveals that cost remains a stubborn barrier to full digital inclusion for remote Indigenous Australians.
The "Mapping the Digital Gap: 2024 Outcomes Report," led by RMIT University, paints a complex picture of progress. Over the past two years, there’s been a 12% surge in internet access and a 19% increase in regular internet usage in remote and very remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This positive trend is largely attributed to improved 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, and satellite connectivity across regional Australia.
However, the report highlights a stark reality: affordability is hindering broader participation in the digital world. "As access to mobile technology slowly improves, we’re finding affordability is still a critical barrier to digital inclusion," said lead investigator Dr. Daniel Featherstone.
Over two-thirds of First Nations people surveyed struggle to afford internet access. More troubling, over half the communities and homelands still lack access to mobile services, leaving many disenfranchised from the online world.
The study found that nearly 70% of respondents had made sacrifices or cut back on essential costs to afford internet access, a significant increase from 40% in 2022. This demonstrates the financial strain that bridging the digital divide places on already marginalized communities.
Adding to the challenge, 99% of mobile phone users in these areas rely on prepaid credit recharges. Unstable income levels frequently prevent access to more cost-effective monthly plans.
Despite these hurdles, the report details inspiring initiatives focused on bridging the gap. Free Wi-Fi hotspots and mesh networks are expanding access, leading to a 31% increase in people using Wi-Fi in public spaces.
Telstra, the research partner, has been instrumental in installing 4G mobile towers in remote communities, providing vital connectivity. Starlink’s introduction of new satellites covering Northern Australia in 2022 has also seen rapid adoption by community agencies and their staff.
"It’s about empowering our communities to participate fully in the digital world," commented a community leader, highlighting the broader implications of digital access. "This project has been instrumental in highlighting the unique challenges we face and the progress we are making towards closing the digital gap."
The report revealed positive trends in online engagement.
More Indigenous Australians are using the internet for music, videos, and games, a 17% increase since 2022. Social media is also highly popular, connecting people with family and friends.
"This highlights that First Nations people are engaging in online activities that are relevant to their lives and communities, despite significant barriers around access and affordability," Featherstone emphasized.
However, challenges persist.
A 19% drop in households owning computers has limited opportunities for children to learn essential digital skills at home. Lack of digital literacy, concerns about scams and cyber-safety, and difficulties with two-factor authentication and online banking further compound these issues.
As Dr. Featherstone underlines, "There remains an urgent need for programs and support to address digital ability. The planned Digital Mentors program included in the 2024 Budget measures will be a positive development, but with so many communities," he adds, "more expansive programs for digital skills, support and online safety awareness are needed. Without this, the gap in digital ability is likely to further widen, particularly in a period of rapid digital transformation to online service delivery and withdrawal of face to face services."
With the second phase of the "Mapping the Digital Gap" project set to begin next year, researchers will broaden their scope to measure mobile technology access for Indigenous Australians across the entire country, not just in remote regions.
This expanded focus aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape and guide future efforts to ensure equal access and participation in the digital world for all Australians, regardless of location or background.
