## Internet Access Improves in Remote Communities
A new report highlights that **internet access** in Australia's **remote and very remote communities** has improved over the past two years, thanks to enhanced **4G, Wi-Fi, and satellite infrastructure** across regional Australia. 

The **Mapping the Digital Gap** report led by RMIT University reveals a **12% increase** in internet access and an **18% increase** in regular internet usage. However, despite these improvements, **cost** remains a significant barrier to greater digital inclusion.

## Affordability Challenges
More than **two-thirds** of First Nations people surveyed struggle to afford internet services, with over **half** of the communities still lacking mobile access. 
- Nearly **70%** of respondents have made sacrifices or cut back on essential costs to afford the internet, a rise from **40%** in 2022.
- **99%** of mobile phone users rely on **prepaid credit**, as low and unreliable incomes limit access to better value monthly plans.
- Out of **1,505** remote communities, about **796** still lack mobile services.

![Shanisha Harris doing the survey with Shalarna Thorpe in Wilcannia, New South Wales.](https://www.rmit.edu.au/content/dam/rmit/rmit-images/news/2024/dec/digital-inclusion/ShanishaHarrisShalarnaThorpe.jpeg)

## Progress Towards Digital Inclusion
RMIT researchers have been mapping digital inclusion in remote First Nations communities for three years. Lead investigator **Dr. Daniel Featherstone** noted that while the gap is narrowing, **inequalities** persist.
- A **6% increase** in regular internet users has been observed since 2022, with **over 60%** of those surveyed using the internet several times a day.
- However, **14%** of individuals still do not use the internet, and many areas experience slow and unreliable services.
- The introduction of **free Wi-Fi hotspots** and **mesh networks** has played a crucial role in improving access, with a **31% increase** in public Wi-Fi usage.
- Collaborations with companies like **Telstra** and **Starlink** are providing essential connectivity.

## Engaging Online Despite Barriers
More First Nations people are now engaging online with music, videos, and games, with a **17% increase** since 2022. High social media usage connects families, while online banking and shopping have also seen growth. However, a **19% drop** in computer ownership has limited opportunities for learning.
- Challenges such as lack of identification, low email usage, and concerns about **cyber-safety** hinder further online engagement.

![Keshiah Sykes on a computer at Wujal Wujal Indigenous Knowledge Centre in Queensland.](https://www.rmit.edu.au/content/dam/rmit/rmit-images/news/2024/dec/digital-inclusion/KeshiahSykes.jpeg)

## Future Directions
Dr. Featherstone emphasizes the need for programs addressing **digital ability** and skills. The planned **Digital Mentors program** in the 2024 Budget is a step forward, yet there is an urgent need for comprehensive programs to prevent widening the digital gap.

The **Mapping the Digital Gap** project is funded by **Telstra** and the **Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society**. The next phase starts next year, aiming for more extensive surveys on access to mobile technology across Australia.

### References
- [Mapping the Digital Gap: 2024 Outcomes Report](https://doi.org/10.60836/xspj-w062)
- Co-authors: Daniel Featherstone, Lyndon Ormond-Parker, Julian Thomas, Sharon Parkinson, Kieran Hegarty, Leah Hawkins, Jenny Kennedy, Lucy Valenta, and Lauren Ganley.

A new report shows internet access in Australia's remote and very remote communities improved in the past two years as 4G, Wi-Fi and satellite

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