The NSW Government has launched its first Digital Inclusion Strategy, setting a clear path to close the digital divide and ensure everyone in NSW can access and benefit from the digital world.
The NSW Government has officially launched its first Digital Inclusion Strategy, marking a pivotal step in addressing digital inequality across the state.
The strategy was previewed at a special event last week at Parramatta Town Hall, attended by NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, the Hon. Jihad Dib, who delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of digital inclusion in creating a more connected and equitable NSW.
The event brought together leaders from across government, industry and community organisations to hear more about the strategy’s vision, its pillars and practical initiatives. VIP guests included NSW Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, Kate Washington, NSW Women's Safety Commissioner, Dr Hannah Tonkin, Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis and Member for Liverpool, Charishma Kaliyanda.
Providing an in-depth overview of the strategy’s purpose and implementation, Kylie De Courteney, Managing Director of NSW Telco Authority, presented the role of NSWTA in leading the strategy as the state’s connectivity authority; and emphasised the need for an all-of-government approach to address digital exclusion.
“Connectivity is fundamental, but it’s just the beginning,” Ms De Courteney said. “Digital inclusion also means affordability, accessibility, digital ability, and trust. Without these, people can’t fully engage with the digital world — and that can lead to real social, economic and health disadvantages.”
Key findings from the public consultation informed the strategy, including data showing 61% of low-income households and 64% of residents in remote or regional NSW struggle with affordability, while 48% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander respondents experience accessibility challenges.
The five pillars of the strategy — connectivity, affordability, digital ability, accessibility, and digital trust and safety — form a comprehensive framework to ensure everyone in NSW has more opportunities to participate in the digital world.
The event also featured remarks from David Spriggs, CEO of the Australian Digital Inclusion Alliance, who spoke about the power of partnerships in driving inclusion and how collaborative effort across sectors is essential to achieving lasting impact.
The panel Q&A, moderated by Rania Wannous, Executive Director of Customer and Emergency Management at NSWTA, invited engaging discussion from Minister Dib, Laura Christie (Deputy Secretary, Digital NSW), Kylie De Courteney and David Spriggs.
Attendees had the opportunity to network and reflect on the significance of the strategy over morning tea following the formal proceedings.
The NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy and its Action Plan are now live and available to explore. The strategy sets a clear direction for government agencies, community partners and industry to work together to improve access, skills, affordability and safety in the digital space.
NSW Telco Authority will be working closely with stakeholders across government, industry and the community to support the delivery of the strategy in NSW.
Digital Inclusion Strategy Launch
The Digital Inclusion Strategy was launched by NSW Telco Authority and the NSW Government on Thursday 1 May 2025.
