Regional Connectivity Program taking new funding applications

Local, state and territory governments are being encouraged to apply for funding under the Commonwealth’s $53 million Regional Connectivity Program.

Examples of projects that could be funded under the Program include upgrades to mobile infrastructure to improve community access to telehealth, remote education and retail internet and phone services, or the development of enterprise-grade broadband networks to support local agricultural, manufacturing and tourism businesses to engage more competitively online.

The program complements the National Broadband Network rollout and the Mobile Black Spot Program; with telecommunications providers, regional communities, and regional development organisations also being urged to apply for funding.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications is hosting a noticeboard to facilitate collaboration and register potential projects.

Applications are open until 20 October. Go to the Commonwealth’s central grants website: www.grants.gov.au for guidelines.