Set to be developed and operated by the National Farmers’ Federation, the hub is designed to build regional, rural and remote Australians’ digital capabilities.
Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts Minister Paul Fletcher said regional Australians faced different challenges when it came to digital communications.
“The new Digital Tech Hub will support people in regional Australia with information to find the right telecommunication solutions for their homes and businesses, and better harness the benefits of connectivity and technology.”
A 2018 Regional Telecommunications Review found that consumers in regional communities often lacked knowledge of how to use different technologies, and how to trouble-shoot issues.
The review recommended the development of an online technology hub to provide independent and factual information on digital choices to people in regional areas.
Regional Communications Minister Mark Coulton said the NFF would provide a platform that was focused on regional issues.
“People will be able to access support over the phone, through social media and online, to help solve issues with their phone and internet services, find the latest applications for their homes or businesses, and understand their rights as consumers and where to go to escalate faults.”
NFF president Fiona Simson said COVID-19 had shown a glimpse of what was possible, with remote work enabling more people to live in regional Australia.
“It’s never been more crucial to help people in regional areas get connected and stay connected. The Digital Tech Hub will help them take full advantage of connected technologies.”
The NFF was selected to develop and run the hub following a competitive open tender process.
The hub is expected to be operational and online before the end of 2020.
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