Australians in regional, rural and remote areas now have access to advice and assistance on telecommunications issues, thanks to the Regional Tech Hub launched by NSW Nationals Regional Communications Minister Mark Coulton.
Mr Coulton said the Regional Tech Hub will help rural Australians understand the telecommunications options available to them, decide which option best suits their needs, and resolve problems they experience with their phone and internet connections.
Also attending the launch at Parliament House were National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President Fiona Simson and Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) CEO Teresa Corbin.
The NFF was selected to develop and run the Hub following a tender process earlier this year. The NFF is working closely with ACCAN to ensure the information provided through the Hub is practical, relevant and easily accessible.
“The Regional Tech Hub delivers on the NSW Nationals in the federal government’s commitment to help improve the digital literacy of Australians in regional, rural and remote areas by providing a one-stop source of independent, practical advice,” Mr Coulton said.
“The NSW Nationals in the federal government are committed to improving digital connectivity and access to the internet for all Australians, and the Regional Tech Hub is an important part of our approach to ensuring people understand all the options available to them, from mobile networks to the NBN Sky Muster Plus.”
NFF President Fiona Simson said the Hub includes an easy-to-use online portal, an enquiry Hotline staffed by tech support experts located in regional Australia, and dedicated social media platforms.
“The Tech Hub builds on the outstanding work pioneered by the volunteer organisation Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia,” Ms Simson said.
The Regional Tech Hub has been funded as part of the NSW Nationals in the federal government’s $220 million Stronger Regional Digital Connectivity Program, which was announced in March 2019 in response to the recommendations of the 2018 Regional Telecommunications Review.
The NFF has been contracted to deliver the Tech Hub for an initial 12 months with an option for a further two year extension.
Australians rural areas needing practical advice on their telecommunications options and issues can visit the Regional Tech Hub website at regionaltechhub.org.au or contact the Hub’s hotline on 1300 081 029.
