Grants available to boost First Nations digital inclusion

The Federal Government has announced three new programs aimed at boosting First Nations digital inclusion.

The new programs are part of the Government’s $68 million investment in First Nations digital inclusion measures announced in the 2024-25 Federal Budget and will contribute to achieving equal levels of digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people under Target 17 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

“We’re committed to bridging the digital divide for First Nations Australians, including those living in regional, remote and very remote communities,” Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland said.

“Access to fast and reliable connectivity is absolutely essential for communicating, working, accessing healthcare and education – and for fully participating in today’s world.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said digital inclusion was about ensuring all Australians are able to access and benefit from digital technologies – no matter where they live.

“That is why we are committed to working with First Nations people and communities to bridge the digital divide, provide greater access to information and services, and address the barriers to participating online,” she said.

The $20 million First Nations Community Wi-Fi Program will fund eligible projects to roll-out free community Wi-Fi solutions in remote and very remote First Nations communities. Successful grantees will be required to work closely in consultation with communities to deliver place-based solutions for a minimum period of five years.

This program will build on the success of the Government’s NBN Community Wi-Fi Program announced in February 2024, which is delivering free Wi-Fi connectivity in 23 remote First Nations communities in partnership with NBN Co.

Applications are also being sought for the First Nations Digital Support Hub Program and Network of Digital Mentors Program, which will support First Nations Australians to be online safely and effectively, and determine which connectivity options are best for them.

A total of $4 million over two years is available for the development and delivery of a Digital Support Hub to provide national assistance online and over the phone to First Nations peoples and communities to help them develop their digital and connectivity literacy.

The Digital Support Hub is complemented by $18 million in funding over three years to support the establishment of a Network of Digital Mentors, delivered in remote First Nations communities.

The Digital Mentors will provide mentorship and training to improve digital literacy and assist community members to safely participate in the digital economy.

Applications for the First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors Programs close on 13 March 2025.

Applications for the First Nations Community Wi-Fi Program close on 24 April 2025.

To apply, visit: https://www.grants.gov.au/