Technology Upgrade Fund to build digital capacity for community organisations

2021-03-09

The ACT Government is consulting with community organisations to deliver a $478,000 Technology Upgrade Fund to help build their digital capacity and online presence this year.

A total of $1.4 million will be provided over the next four years, to deliver the Technology Upgrade Fund for the community services sector.

Assistant Minister for Seniors, Veterans, Families and Community Services Emma Davidson says this funding will support the community sector build their technology capacity and better communicate with the people they support.

“The community sector will be consulted to inform the scope and eligibility for the Technology Upgrade Fund. This is vital in ensuring the Fund meets the needs of the community sector organisations and the community members they support, including individuals with mobility constraints,” Minister Davidson said.

“COVID-19 has changed how we communicate with one another, with more people using online services and channels to consume and share information. Working with the community sector will better equip the ACT Government to deliver a Fund that creates a more inclusive and accessible Canberra, creating opportunities for connectedness, belonging and active participation."

Once feedback is received from the community, the ACT Government will progress rollout of the Technology Upgrade Fund before June 30 this year.

The Technology Upgrade Fund is the next step in increasing digital capacity for the community sector, following on from recent funding through the Participation (Digital Communities) and COVID-19 Stimulus Rapid Response Grants Programs to promote digital equity for all Canberrans.

The initiative also aligns with the ACT Government’s Digital Strategy which launched in March 2020 to create a more inclusive and connected Canberra.