The Federal Government has outlined a $5 million package to help 14 local government bodies take advantage of the National Broadband Network to provide better services to their communities.

 

"The fast, affordable, and reliable broadband delivered by the NBN allows local councils to put residents and ratepayers at the heart of local government service delivery – where they should be. Ultimately, this means better, more accessible and more convenient services, delivered more efficiently and with less hassle,” Minister for Broadband Communications and the Digital Economy Senator Stephen Conroy said.

 

The Digital Local Government program will provide funding of up to $375,000 to each local government.

 

The funding will be used to deliver a range of NBN-enabled services, including high-definition videoconferencing to enable greater access to council staff and improved efficiencies in council operations.

 

"High-definition videoconferencing over the NBN is a great way to bolster important frontline support delivered by councils, as well as other services that require significant consultation, like building and development applications," Senator Conroy said.

 

"The NBN will also mean residents can participate more easily in town hall meetings and council workshops, without needing to travel long distances to be there in person. This is particularly relevant for Australians living in regional areas where the travel required can prohibit such engagement."

 

A further funding round for the Digital Local Government Program will be announced later this year. For more details on the Digital Local Government program visitwww.dbcde.gov.au/digitallocalgov