The Network of Digital Mentors 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: $18 million over one year for a Network of Digital Mentors $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. 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. Network of Digital Mentors The purpose of the Network of Digital Mentors Program (Network of Digital Mentors) is to establish and train a network of digital mentors in remote First Nations communities to assist people residing within those communities to enhance their access to connectivity, develop digital skills and literacy and to safely participate in the digital economy.