The First Nations Digital Support Hub Program and the Network of Digital Mentors Program – Combined Grant Opportunity

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 ($2 million per year, GST exclusive) over two years to establish the First Nations Digital Support Hub ·         $18 million ($6 million per year, GST exclusive) over three years 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. 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. 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.