Uncovering the Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap in Digital Equity and Inclusion

📌 About the Report

The Western Parkland City Digital Equity and Inclusion Program explores digital access, affordability, and ability across the region. This research identifies key barriers to digital inclusion and provides strategic recommendations to bridge the digital divide.

Key Findings

🔹 30% of WPC residents face digital exclusion, compared to 17.3% in Greater Sydney
🔹 Fairfield, Hawkesbury, and the Blue Mountains have the highest levels of digital exclusion
🔹 Older adults, culturally diverse communities, and First Nations residents face significant barriers
🔹 Affordability stress is a major concern, with some households cutting back on essentials to afford internet access
🔹 Limited infrastructure in peri-urban areas like the Blue Mountains and Wollondilly leads to unreliable connectivity

Why Digital Inclusion Matters

🌍 Essential for daily life – Health, education, employment, and social connection all depend on reliable digital access.
🏡 Impact on communities – Unequal digital access worsens social and economic disadvantages.
📡 Smart cities & future growth – Building an inclusive, connected Western Parkland City requires investment in digital equity.

Recommendations

✅ Expand affordable internet access – Subsidies for low-income families, public Wi-Fi expansion, and reduced-cost data plans.
✅ Improve digital literacy – Community-led training programs and multilingual digital mentors.
✅ Strengthen digital infrastructure – Investment in broadband and mobile networks, especially in peri-urban areas.
✅ Support culturally diverse and First Nations communities – Tailored programs to increase digital participation.

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