Community Technology Initiative - Bridging the Digital Divide

The City of Sydney recognised a growing digital divide that disproportionately affected vulnerable community members, particularly seniors, job seekers, students, and low-income families. According to the ABS Census, 8.6% of households within the local government area lacked internet access. In a highly connected society, this represented a significant barrier to social inclusion, digital literacy, employment opportunities, education, and access to essential services.
While the City had historically provided public technology through its libraries and community centres, such as shared computers, internet access, and basic printing - these services were delivered via aging equipment and legacy systems that no longer met modern demands. Community members experienced limitations such as slow devices, unreliable internet, and an overall lack of support for accessibility or digital skill development.
In response, the City embarked on a strategic and community-centred transformation across its libraries, community centres, child care spaces and venues for hire. Extensive engagement was conducted with residents, frontline staff, and internal council teams to understand specific barriers, needs, and expectations. This collaborative research informed the development of a new, comprehensive Community Technology Initiative - designed to modernise infrastructure, reduce barriers to participation, and empower digitally excluded individuals in our community.
Key improvements included the rollout of new high-performance computers, high-speed internet and Wi-Fi coverage across sites, inclusive software and accessibility tools, and proactive system monitoring to ensure service reliability. The initiative also supported new digital literacy programs tailored to different age and skill groups, fostering confidence and capability across the community.
This holistic, community-centred approach not only provides immediate access to technology but builds long-term digital capability, social connection, and economic opportunity - helping to close the digital divide and foster a more inclusive and resilient city.