The Australian government is providing A$5 million ($5.25 million) to help 14 local governments take advantage of the National Broadband Network (NBN).
The funding will be used to deliver a range of NBN-enabled services, including high-definition videoconferencing to enable greater access to council staff and improved efficiencies in council operations. The 14 councils span from Goodna in Queensland to Geraldton in Western Australia and Midway Point in Tasmania.
"The fast, affordable, and reliable broadband delivered by the NBN allows local councils to put residents and ratepayers at the heart of local government service delivery – where they should be. Ultimately, this means better, more accessible and more convenient services, delivered more efficiently and with less hassle," said Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy,
High-definition videoconferencing over the NBN, for one, is seen as a great way to bolster important frontline support delivered by councils, as well as other services that require significant consultation, like building and development applications.
"The NBN will also mean residents can participate more easily in town hall meetings and council workshops, without needing to travel long distances to be there in person. This is particularly relevant for Australians living in regional areas where the travel required can prohibit such engagement," Senator Conroy said.