NSW launches digital connectivity map

The NSW Government has launched a new interactive map aimed at providing a statewide view of internet and mobile phone connectivity on a suburb-by-suburb and local government area basis.

The NSW Digital Connectivity Index uses over 200 million data points from public and commercially acquired datasets to measure the presence and performance of mobile and internet coverage. The tool seeks to consider factors influencing the ability of residents to use digital tools, including digital literacy of residents in the area.

Government agencies will be able to overlay their own datasets onto the tool to identify priority areas for connectivity, such as areas prone to disasters or car accident blackspots. Meanwhile agencies, local councils, businesses and service providers can lean on the tool to make more informed decisions around digital inclusion and connectivity investment.

The tool was developed by the NSW Telco Authority with support from NSW Spatial Services.

NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said ensuring that all the state’s residents can confidently access and utilise the internet is a key priority for the state government.

“The NSW Digital Connectivity Index will help identify areas where we may be able to provide support and work with other levels of government and industry to develop solutions,” he said. “The suburb-by-suburb detail of this tool, measuring connectivity by access, affordability and demographics, is a first for Australia. It sets us on the path to building digital inclusion and community safety, from improving connectivity during natural disasters to identifying blackspots.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Bill Oxford