The Andrews Labor Government is boosting digital technology infrastructure, skills and capability across the Great South Coast.
The Labor Government’s $3.5 million Regional Digital Fund supports a broad range of important small-scale digital projects across Victoria including two regional projects in the Great South Coast region to increase digital capability, connectivity, infrastructure and inclusion. The Great South Coast Regional Partnership directs this funding using place-based analysis to identify gaps in our region’s current digital infrastructure, and makes recommendations on addressing those gaps.
An Internet of Things project is being undertaken by Southern Grampians Shire Council to develop a digital ecosystem and Smart Communities framework across a network of local government areas to strengthen support and service delivery for communities across the region.
A study to scope the feasibility of a Digital Skills Hub was undertaken by South West TAFE to investigate how a network of digital hubs across the Great South Coast region could support digital access, skills and training development.
The Regional Digital Fund helps businesses and the community in regional Victoria by funding projects identified as priorities by each local Regional Partnership, investing up to $390,000 in each partnership region.
Digital connectivity and skills have been identified as key priorities across regional Victoria, and these projects focus on helping residents and businesses move beyond geographical and social barriers to economic growth.
All the Regional Digital Fund projects will help build digital technology infrastructure, skills and capability in regional Victoria, supporting ongoing competitiveness of regional businesses, emerging industries and helping to create local jobs.
In addition to the Great South Coast region, other priority projects are rolling out across the state under the Fund in Barwon, Central Highlands, Gippsland, Goulburn, Loddon Campaspe, Mallee, Ovens Murray and Wimmera Southern Mallee regions.
To find out more, visit rdv.vic.gov.au/resources/digital-plans/innovation-in-the-regions.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“We are committed to improving digital connectivity and capabilities throughout regional Victoria, creating opportunities for businesses and reducing the barriers for social and economic activity.”
“Connecting Great South Coast’s residents and businesses with the technology they need will play a key role in our state’s recovery from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford
“The Regional Digital Fund is helping to bridge the digital divide in regional Victoria and will drive significant benefits for the Great South Coast, creating local jobs and boosting economic growth.”
“Our investment to boost digital connectivity and skills for residents and businesses in Victoria will help set us up for the future, making the Great South Coast’s economy stronger and more resilient.”