The Australian Digital Inclusion Index released today shows some progress to boost digital inclusion but highlights a significant gap when it comes to First Nations Australians.
On average, Australian digital inclusion continues to improve across all three domains of access, affordability and digital ability. The Index shows an improvement in the national score from 71.1 in 2021 to 73.2, with access increasing from 70 to 72, affordability increasing from 93.1 to 95, and digital ability from 64.6 to 64.9.
The latest ADII also includes enhanced insights into First Nations digital inclusion and highlights the continuing digital gap between First Nations and non-First Nations people in Australia. Today's report shows this gap is particularly pronounced for First Nations people living in remote and very remote locations.
The Index provides important insights into digital inclusion across Australia, including for vulnerable groups such as low income households, older Australians, and First Nations Australians. Improved digital inclusion means Australians have greater access to digital services, education, employment, social connectedness, and economic opportunity.
The Albanese Government is committed to boosting digital inclusion - particularly for First Nations Australians. The First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group - funded through the October 2022-23 Budget and established in January this year - is currently engaged in consultation with First Nation communities, organisations and industry to provide advice to Government on narrowing the digital divide. The Group expects to deliver its first report to the Government shortly.
The Albanese Government has also allocated more than $2.2 billion to improve telecommunications for regional, rural and remote Australia - including $656 million as part of its Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
Applications are currently open for the combined $160 million Regional Connectivity Program and Mobile Black Spot Program grant opportunity, which includes $32.5 million earmarked for First Nations communities.
