The Australian Government is seeking tenders to support the operation and expansion of the Regional Tech Hub, which provides free advice about telecommunications services for regional, rural and remote Australians.
The successful tender will support the work of the Hub for a period of three years from 1 July 2023.
The Regional Tech Hub currently supports regional consumers of telecommunications services with independent, factual information and troubleshooting advice. The Hub provides expert advice about how to connect and stay connected to communications services.
The Hub has supported regional Australians since December 2020 and provides information via a website, online helpdesk, phone support line, discussion forum and social media.
The Albanese Government has made significant commitments to improve regional communications through its $656 million Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia. The plan commits $6 million to expanding and extending the work of the Regional Tech Hub.
The continued and expanded operation of a Regional Tech Hub supports the recommendation of the Regional Telecommunications Independent Review Committee (RTIRC) 2021 Report for a substantially enhanced and resourced Regional Tech Hub, and fulfills a Government election commitment.
Federal Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, said the Federal Government is delivering on their commitment to expand and support the important work of the Regional Tech Hub.
“For Australians who live and work in areas outside of our major cities and towns, accessing and troubleshooting phone and internet connectivity can be more complex for a range of reasons.
“The Hub helps people work through these challenges and ensure regional communities can reach their full potential.
“An expanded Regional Tech Hub will ensure independent and factual information is provided to and tailored for the unique circumstances experienced by regional, rural and remote communities.”
More information on the Regional Tech Hub tender process is available at https://www.tenders.gov.au/
