The First Nations Digital Support Hub Program

Overview

In the 2024-25 Budget, the Australian Government provided funding to support the digital ability and literacy of First Nations Australians, to help progress Closing the Gap Target 17: By 2026, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have equal levels of digital inclusion, through the following programs: $4 million over one year to establish the First Nations Digital Support Hub, across two streams of funding: Stream 1 (website): $0.5 million to establish and maintain a website, which delivers digital literacy and connectivity in plain English and in First Nations languages  Stream 2 (call centre): $3.5 million to establish a call centre to provide advice on the digital options and connectivity challenges that communities may face. $18 million over one year for a Network of Digital Mentors Refer to the National Agreement on Closing the Gap for more information on these targets and priority reforms. Both programs aim to improve First Nations digital inclusion by providing culturally safe advice and support to First Nations Australians regarding the use of telecommunications services, online safety, accessing essential services and troubleshooting connectivity issues. Delivery will be flexible to ensure the programs are responsive to changes in consumer experiences and expectations over time. First Nations Digital Support Hub The purpose of the First Nations Digital Support Hub Program (Digital Support Hub) is to support digital ability and connectivity literacy for First Nations people and communities, supporting and enabling skills development to be online safely and effectively, and to determine the connectivity options best for community members. It will provide this support through an online website, provide materials and resources, and telephone/email assistance. The Digital Support Hub will not be a walk-in centre that services customers in-person.