Australia urged to adopt unified strategy for digital inclusion

The Australian Digital Inclusion Alliance (ADIA) has called for a unified national approach to digital inclusion in response to data indicating that almost a quarter of Australia's population is struggling to effectively participate in the digital world.

Releasing its latest position paper, A National Approach to Digital Inclusion, the ADIA outlined the need for national accountability, cross-sector coordination and a renewed emphasis on digital literacy to underpin the country's ambitions in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital-driven productivity growth.

National digital divide

The position paper recognises that as digitisation accelerates across work, education and daily life, many Australians are unable to access the social and economic benefits due to barriers such as ability, access and affordability.

David Spriggs, Chair of the Australian Digital Inclusion Alliance, said, "The Albanese Government rightly recognises digital and AI capability as huge opportunities for the nation and it is imperative that it also recognise and take responsibility for digital inclusion as a crucial foundation for that agenda."

"Most Australians would be shocked to learn that almost a quarter of the population struggles to join in the digital world and all it enables in daily life. While digital tools and AI offer great hope to deliver positive social and economic outcomes, those who might benefit most are often those who lack the capacity to effectively engage, whether through gaps of ability, access or affordability."

The ADIA's position paper sets out three primary recommendations for government action in collaboration with the sector. These are to establish national accountability, including ministerial responsibility and an action plan; invest in ecosystem coordination and sector resources; and prioritise ability by developing a national benchmark for digital skills.

Economic and social impact

The paper highlights the significant economic and social potential of digital inclusion, noting both current gaps and the need for evidence-based policy to drive improvement at scale. The ADIA is positioning itself as a partner to government, aiming to help coordinate efforts and inform policy with data and industry insight.

"Digital inclusion is a multifaceted challenge and interfaces across all areas of social and economic disadvantage. But approaching the problem in the same fragmented way won't be enough. It's time for a national approach, with government leadership in coordinated collaboration with those working to address digital inclusion," Spriggs commented.

He further noted that progress has been made in certain areas, stating, "Australia has a dedicated digital inclusion sector with some terrific opportunities to build from, including the federal government's foundational progress in First Nations digital inclusion, formed around a clear goal and advisory group. Concepts such as a national device bank and concessional broadband product are also strong opportunities for government leadership."

Sector and stakeholder perspectives

The call for coordinated action has received endorsement from various sector leaders. Carol Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network, highlighted the urgency of collective progress:

"Access to communications services is fundamental to participating in modern life — from work and education to health, social connection, and accessing government services. In this context, advancing digital inclusion has never been more urgent. Real progress will require collaboration, and we commend the ADIA for its critical role in bringing together community voices, consumer groups, policymakers and government to drive meaningful change."

Josh Griggs, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Computer Society, underscored the importance of foundational skills:

"While Australia has a huge opportunity to expand its digital skills base and access the productivity benefits enabled by digital technologies, it is also imperative to consider the foundational skills people need just to participate in modern life, education and work. As AI rapidly emerges, it is vital to ensure people have the ability and confidence to fully engage in the opportunity, while empowering more people with the most basic digital skills can have the positive effect of increasing workforce diversity as they progress to higher levels of capability. Digital ability must be front and centre of efforts to create an equitable digital society and strong digital economy."

Sarah Davies AM, Chief Executive Officer of Alannah & Madeline Foundation, supported a whole-of-nation approach, focusing on youth:

"Digital inclusion provides myriad positive social and economic benefits for all Australians, but a fragmented approach means many still lack the skills, knowledge and capacity to engage effectively in the digital world. That's why the Alannah & Madeline Foundation supports a national approach to digital inclusion, with particular focus on ensuring all children and young people have access to quality digital literacy education that equips them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to safely and successfully navigate and participate in the digital world."

Jess Wilson, Chief Executive Officer at Good Things Australia, referred to research illustrating the economic advantages achievable via digital upskilling and support:

"The increasing prevalence of digital technologies in almost every aspect of our everyday lives provides opportunities for increased economic and social inclusion, improved access to health, greater well-being, and greater productivity. Good Things' research into the Economic Benefits of Overcoming Digital Exclusion found that there are almost half a billion dollars in annual benefits available if appropriate digital skills training and financial support are delivered to those most excluded."

Doug Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of The Smith Family, and Caroline McDaid, Chief Executive Officer of WorkVentures, both noted the necessity of national leadership and practical interventions such as device banks.

"At The Smith Family, we have seen first-hand the enormous impact access to a digitally connected laptop can make to educational and life outcomes of students and their families. National leadership and a national approach are essential if we are to close the digital divide. We need cooperation across departments beyond education, the coordination and cooperation of Federal, State and Territory governments, and the right policy settings to support this."

"A nationally coordinated approach is essential to build on the incredible work already underway across Australia to improve digital inclusion. Initiatives like a National Device Bank offer a practical and scalable way to bridge the digital access gap - and, in doing so, serve as a catalyst for broader progress in digital skills and connectivity. But without federal leadership and support, efforts risk becoming fragmented, potentially leaving communities behind. Now is the time for a unified national approach that ensures digital inclusion is equitable, sustainable and truly nationwide."

The ADIA and sector voices maintain that digital inclusion must be treated as a top-tier national priority if Australia is to fully realise the benefits of digital technology, AI and improved economic productivity across its community.