Connected Communities:
Connecting communities can bridge distances between urban, rural and remote areas and enhance economic opportunities for all Tasmanians. Developing broadband infrastructure, coupled with innovative programs, will strengthen social networks, provide access to a wider range of economic and learning opportunities, promote effective service delivery, and further empower individuals as informed citizens.

Being the most decentralised state in Australia, Tasmania can benefit enormously from the arrival of advanced digital networks. The current National Broadband Broadband (NBN) Rollout of optic fibre  infrastructure in Tasmania can assist to increase the quality of life for all Tasmanians by:

• connecting people across urban, regional and remote communities
• reducing social inequality through community broadband access programs
• offering eLearning programs
• developing ‘smart towns’ by creating innovation communities in ‘wired spaces’
• encouraging participation in government processes
• offering comprehensive and tailored social services

The Digital Divide

One of the biggest challenges facing connected communities is  the digital divide, the gap between those with access to technology and those who are not engaged or excluded from digital services. The following report from the BCC Technology website highlights the growing concerns that face all societies and governments. Titled  World wakes up to the digital divide, it offers a  snapshot of those countries that are connected and the growing gap that is occurring.