CLOSING THE GAP ON DIGITAL INCLUSION: A NATIONAL PRIORITY
BY ASAD KHAN
The digital divide between First Nations Australians and the broader population is increasingly recognized as a critical issue. In response, the Australian Government has established the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group to address disparities in digital access and literacy.
The group aims to unite communities and governments to ensure equitable access to vital online services, employment opportunities, and social connectivity.
This initiative reflects a broader effort to close the gap in key socio-economic indicators for First Nations peoples, particularly in remote and regional areas. Extensive consultations have been conducted with Indigenous communities to identify needs and challenges.
However, some First Nations leaders, such as Clifton Girgirba, a proud Martu man, argues that these efforts, while well-intentioned, fall short of addressing the unique challenges faced by remote communities.
Challenges of Digital Inclusion in Remote Communities
He emphasizes that the digital divide is just one part of a more complex picture of inequality. He explains that remote communities often feel overlooked in national conversations about progress and development.
"People are struggling more than in the city. City and regional towns, they get more, and remote doesn’t. We don't exist in this country. Even the old people, they can't speak English—they're struggling. Even the parents are struggling,"
Mr Girgirba highlights the importance of prioritizing remote areas, where cultural preservation and language are intertwined with community identity.
According to him, without support for remote communities, Australia risks losing the cultural and linguistic heritage that has defined the nation for over 60,000 years.
"Without language, we’ll be finished. This country will have no identity without us First Nations,"
Building Trust Through Cultural Understanding
A recurring theme in Mr Girgirba’s reflections is the need for trust and cultural respect in addressing the digital divide. He criticizes initiatives that impose solutions without adequately engaging with the affected communities.
"You’ve got to go into the community and communicate to get the trust first. You can't just come in and take over. You’re going to build that trust with cultural knowledge," he said.
This sentiment underscores the importance of long-term engagement and collaboration rather than quick fixes.
Mr Girgirba’s remarks reflect frustration with promises that fail to translate into meaningful action.
"I know what we're going through. I see it in the media. Promises have been laid out, and nothing's enough. Help us,"
Toward a Future of Digital Equity
The First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group represents an important step forward in addressing digital disparities. However, as Girgirba and others have pointed out, true progress requires an understanding of the broader systemic challenges faced by remote First Nations communities.
Efforts must be rooted in cultural respect, long-term engagement, and a commitment to addressing the structural barriers that perpetuate inequality.
As Australia works to bridge the digital divide, prioritizing the unique needs of remote Indigenous communities will be essential in ensuring that no one is left behind.
The success of these initiatives will not only enhance digital inclusion but also contribute to preserving the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of First Nations peoples—a legacy that is integral to Australia’s identity.
Listen to Clifton Girgirba voice his concerns: