Regional Connectivity Program

Overview

The Regional Connectivity Program (RCP) is an $83 million competitive grant opportunity to expand the economic, social and public safety benefits of improved digital connectivity to regional, rural and remote Australian communities. The grant opportunity will be administered by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (DITRDC). The RCP will complement the existing National Broadband Network (NBN) and the Government’s Mobile Black Spot Program, particularly in areas of fringe commercial mobile coverage and outside of the NBN fixed-line footprint. Funded infrastructure under the RCP must provide retail mobile or broadband services to a regional, rural or remote community or a subset of the community (such as local businesses, tourist locations, schools etc). Proposals must demonstrate the clear need for improved telecommunications and community support for any proposed economic and/or social benefits. Consortia projects are also encouraged in order to maximise the value and outcomes of the program. To assist collaboration between local communities, the telecommunications industry, governments and other organisations, the Government has launched an online noticeboard which will enable interested parties to foster links and work together on proposals for funding. The noticeboard is available until the grant opportunity close date via the DITRDC website at www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/internet/regional-connectivity-program/regional-connectivity-program-noticeboard