Australians in regional, rural and remote areas will now have access to free, accessible advice and assistance on telecommunications issues through the Regional Tech Hub launched today by Regional Communications Minister, Mark Coulton MP.
The Regional Tech Hub will help rural Australians understand the telecommunications options, decide which option best suits their needs, and resolve problems they experience with their phone and internet connections.
Federal Member for Grey Rowan Ramsey said the National Farmer’s Federation has been selected to develop the hub.“The NFF has a great understanding of regional Australia and they are the ideal partners to get this Hub off the ground,” he said. “With their feet firmly planted in rural Australia the NFF will ensure the Hub provides practical, relevant and easily accessible information.
“The Government is committed improving the digital literacy of Australians in regional, rural and remote areas and this one-stop source of independent, practical advice will reduce some of the barriers to consumers connecting to the “gig economy”.
“We understand the importance of modern telecommunications for our regional communities and we are committing to a plan to make digital services, from mobile networks, to the NBN Sky Muster Plus easier to access.
NFF President Fiona Simson said the Hub includes an easy-to-use online portal, an enquiry Hotline staffed by tech support experts located in regional Australia and dedicated social media platforms.
“The Tech Hub builds on the outstanding work pioneered by the volunteer organisation Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia,” Ms Simson said.
The Regional Tech Hub has been funded as part of the Government’s $220 million Stronger Regional Digital Connectivity Program, which was announced in March 2019 in response to the recommendations of the 2018 Regional Telecommunications Review.
The NFF has been contracted to deliver the Tech Hub for an initial 12 months with an option for a further two-year extension.
Australians rural areas needing practical advice on their telecommunications options and issues can visit the Regional Tech Hub website at regionaltechhub.org.au or contact the Hub’s hotline on 1300 081 029.
Media Contact: Leonie Lloyd-Smith 02 62774967 December 8 2020
