The research has informed major digital inclusion initiatives, including government and industry investments in connectivity, satellite deployment and digital literacy programs. By strengthening the evidence base linking digital access with economic development and social outcomes, the project is helping guide future infrastructure planning, policy and programs that support more connected, resilient and inclusive regional communities across northern Australia.
- Author CRCNA and research partners
- Publish date 12 March 2026
- Type Report
- Documents
- Strategic policy development
Summary
This impact evaluation summarises the outcomes of CRCNA project: AHT.7.1718129 Northern Australian Communication Situational Analysis which examined how digital inclusion influences economic participation, service access and community wellbeing across northern Australia. Led by Queensland University of Technology with university, industry and regional partners, the project identified barriers to digital infrastructure, services and digital capability, and produced a five-year roadmap to guide coordinated investment and policy development.
Projects
Northern Australian Communication Analysis
The Northern Australia Communication Analysis project examined how digital connectivity and inclusion influence economic development, productivity and community wellbeing across northern Australia. Delivered through a collaboration between Queensland University of Technology, James Cook University, Charles Darwin University, industry and regional development partners, the project investigated barriers to digital infrastructure, telecommunications access and digital capability across remote and regional communities. The research highlighted how limited connectivity affects agriculture, supply chains, education, employment, service delivery and community resilience. It also explored practical digital and AgTech solutions being adopted across northern Australia, including remote livestock monitoring, satellite tracking, water management systems and on-farm connectivity networks designed for extensive pastoral operations. A major outcome of the project was the development of a five-year roadmap to guide future investment, policy and research priorities for digital inclusion across northern Australia. The project also produced practical tools to help producers assess connectivity options and identify suitable AgTech solutions for their operations. The work has already influenced significant government and industry investment, including digital inclusion programs, regional telecommunications initiatives and Low Earth Orbit satellite deployment projects supporting remote and Indigenous communities. The research has also contributed to regional digital planning initiatives in Cape York and the Torres Strait, while strengthening collaboration between universities, industry and regional stakeholders. Beyond infrastructure, the project reinforced the importance of digital capability, accessibility and fit-for-purpose services in enabling sustainable economic development across northern Australia. Its findings continue to inform policy, investment and regional planning aimed at improving connectivity, workforce participation, business competitiveness and resilience in remote communities. Visit the QUT project website.