Though the $36.6 million program focuses largely on ensuring remote communities have robust public phones, internet access and videoconferencing facilities, Communications Minister Helen Coonan said providing funding for developing indigenous online content was also a priority.
The Department of Communications, IT and the Arts (DCITA) says more than 110,000 indigenous Australians live in communities of up to 3,500 people. About 400 of the nation’s 1200 remote indigenous communities are thought to be without any access to telecommunications services.
Under the BIA initiative, Senator Coonan said priority would be given to those communities with limited communications infrastructure, or none.
“Backing Indigenous Ability will provide up to 150 communities with internet services, enabling communities to access health, education, legal, employment and welfare services more easily,” Senator Coonan said.
“It will also enable entrepreneurial indigenous communities the opportunity to set up micro-businesses and commercial activities such as tourism and selling art and music. Communities will also receive valuable training to ensure the ongoing use and application of basic telecommunications services.”
Applications for the first round of funding opened on February 23 and will close on April 20. The department will also issue requests for tender through the Austender web site for the supply of equipment and services for the program, including internet connectivity, videoconferencing equipment and training services.
The BIA telecommunications program builds on the existing Telecommunications Action Plan for Remote Indigenous Communities.
While all remote indigenous communities are eligible to apply for funding or services, some funding under the new program are to be reserved for allocations “on a needs basis, for example as part of a Shared Responsibility Agreement.”
“Shared Responsibility Agreements are voluntary arrangements between Indigenous communities, governments and other parties to provide a discretionary benefit in return for community obligations,” the department said. “The program includes a strong training and skills development component.”
The program covers six funding areas: telephones, internet access, videoconferencing, training and skills development, indigenous online content, and regional agents.
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