Multimedia Victoria - $2.1 Million Tech Boost for Regional Victoria

$2.1 Million Tech Boost for Regional Victoria


Media release - 4 March 2008

Local governments throughout regional Victoria will receive a technology boost thanks to a $2.1 million broadband innovation grant, Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Theo Theophanous announced today.

Delivering the keynote speech at an Australian Information Industry Association function today, Mr Theophanous said the Brumby Government will make more than $2 million available to support new ICT innovation projects for regional local governments.

"I see ICT as a stand-alone industry – an industry that drives job creation, an industry that drives the economy and innovation – a progressive industry and one that has the unique ability to enable all industries and benefit all communities statewide," Mr Theophanous said.

"This funding will make it possible for rural and regional local councils to improve ICT capabilities through new projects with local groups and companies that aim to introduce original ways of meeting geographical challenges through next generation ICT.

One of the new features stemming from the funding will be the appointment of a Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) Broadband Project Officer, as part of Victoria's participation in the Australian Government’s Clever Networks program.

"The MAV Broadband Project Officer will work with regional local governments to develop and support the implementation of strategic initiatives for improving uptake of broadband and ICT service deliveries in regional Victoria, meeting specific local community needs," he said.

"Projects will vary but will help find ways for delivering improved community services to boost participation in cultural and recreational activities, linking local government agencies and enhance community services delivery such as health services and libraries in rural areas.

"This latest funding injection is in addition to existing regional broadband activities throughout the state, including nearly $100 million in Brumby Government support to health, education and environmental projects through the Broadband Innovation Fund and other programs.

"The Brumby Government is keen to expand innovative broadband initiatives by creating sustainable, strategic projects at the local level. This is important to ensure regional Victoria reaps economic and social benefits," Mr Theophanous said.

The grant has been provided to MAV, the peak body for local government in Victoria, which includes Victoria's 49 regional councils amongst its members. MAV in collaboration with Multimedia Victoria will administer the funding to approved projects.

The Clever Networks program builds on Broadband Framework, the Victorian Government's network policy to develop broadband infrastructure and services throughout the state.

Initiatives of the Broadband Framework include the Broadband Innovation Fund, a $15 million funding pool that finances new uses of broadband technology in health and education sectors in regional Victoria.