New reports help bush internet

BETTER Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia has welcomed the release of two comprehensive reports by the Federal Government, aimed at improving telecommunications in the bush.

The two reports, which cover the development of the Universal Service Guarantee (USG) and the report by the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee (RTIRC), will make a real change to telecommunications services in the bush if the recommendations are adopted in full.

BIRRR co-founder Kristy Sparrow welcomed the release of the two reports and the practical recommendations, but cautioned the government that BIRRR would continue to nip at their heels to ensure the recommendations are put into practice.

“While these reports are a good start to acknowledging problems and putting solutions on paper, the real proof of the pudding will be in seeing practical steps undertaken to improve telecommunications outcomes.

“We are particularly pleased to see the RTIRC committee recommend a digital hub for regional communities to help support and advise regional Australians on how to get and stay connected, as well as provide much needed digital literacy skills to regional communities,” Mrs Sparrow said.

“We look forward to bringing better telecommunications to the bush.”