- Author Marshall, A., Dezuanni, M., Wockner, K., Babacan, H., Burgess, J., Crawford, F., Foth, M., Gregory, R., Mitchell, P., Neale, T., Rogers, S., Wallace, R.
- Publish date 2 July 2020
- Type Discussion paper
- ISBN 978-1-922437-05-1
- Documents
- Strategic policy development
Summary
This Directions Paper identifies impediments and solutions to enterprise and social development through digital participation in Northern Australia.
While the paper’s focus is pan-Northern (east to west) digital inclusion, it offers insights into agriculture, health and First Nations sectors (in alignment with the CRCNA’s focus areas).
This work was undertaken by a consortium of university and industry partners including the QUT Digital Media Research Centre (DMRC) (lead institution), The Cairns Institute at James Cook University, the Northern Institute at Charles Darwin University, Regional Development Australia Northern Territory, and the Centre for Appropriate Technology.
Premise was engaged by the CRCNA to work in partnership with this consortium to investigate and produce three case studies and a technical note for the agricultural sector. These resources are referenced in Appendix A & B of the Directions Paper.
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.