One of the best ways for local governments to save time and money while improving services is through better internet and mobile technologies.

Integrating high-tech ideas to improve people-oriented services brings a range of rewards, and a new deal could see more councils on their way to the future of local governance.

A new deal between the Local Government Association of Queensland and Telstra will help councils take advantage of products, services and platforms for novel business models and more efficient processes.

The five-year arrangement will be worth around $215 million, and is open to councils in Queensland, Tasmania and the Northern Territory.

The deal was brokered by the LGAQ’s own procurement company, Local Buy.

Local Buy CEO Tim Rose says a panel has been set up to look at better ways for councils to access and use mobility and data.

The panel will accept submissions and ideas from Councils throughout Queensland, Tasmania and NT.

“It is an excellent opportunity for rural and regional councils, Indigenous and coastal councils to consider introducing solutions to improve business processes as this offer provides a targeted range of products and services,” Mr Rose said.

Telstra Business Group Managing Director, Will Irving, said the offer represented great value for the councils and ratepayers, allowing them to get the most out of new technologies.

“It will provide the best technology, on the best networks, and make a brilliant connected future for these councils and their ratepayers,” Mr Irving said.

“Whether it be traditional telco offerings like mobile phones, networked landline and IP phone services, or more specific solutions like tablets stocked with apps from a dedicated local government online app store or Wi-Fi at council venues.

“This deal means that the process for councils to acquire technologies and integrate them into their work is now much easier.”