The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) will continue as the ongoing operator of the innovative Regional Tech Hub, following a $6 million investment from the Albanese Government to expand the Hub’s work and reach.
The Regional Tech Hub offers independent advice and support and helps regional Australians navigate often confusing phone and internet options and technical issues. A competitive tender process awarded the contract to NFF to support the Hub’s services over the next three years as it connects with regional, rural and remote consumers and provides independent, factual information and troubleshooting advice.
Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland, says the government is committed to expanding and supporting the important work of the Regional Tech Hub.
“The National Farmers’ Federation are passionate supporters of regional connectivity, and I acknowledge their ongoing partnership to help narrow the digital divide.”
“The expanded Regional Tech Hub will increase support for regional, rural, and remote users, providing independent and factual information to help them get and stay connected,” she said.
The additional funding – committed in the October 2022-23 Federal Budget – will expand the Hub’s services by:
- Creating an expanded information library with resources for business, health and education, indigenous connectivity, and natural disasters and emergencies resources;
- Developing a regional partnerships model to ensure that Regional Tech Hub information and resources reach target audiences through councils and community groups; and
- Continuing the Hub’s outreach program and telephone call-back service on 1300 081 029.
Support for the Hub is part of the Albanese Government’s Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia which is providing more than $1.1 billion to rural and regional communities – including $656 million to improve mobile and broadband connectivity and resilience in rural and regional Australia.
The continued and expanded operation of the Hub delivers on the recommendation of the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee (RTIRC) 2021 Report which called for a substantially enhanced and resourced Hub.
For more information on the Hub, visit regionaltechhub.org.au
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