Free Wi-Fi for Northern Geelong

Free Wi-Fi will be rolled out across Geelong’s northern suburbs, following a $1.8 million grant from the Victorian Government.

The grant, which is spread over four years, will give the city an opportunity to expand the free Wi-Fi network throughout the northern suburbs.

It will also help address issues around digital connectivity and disparities of access.

The importance of the community having digital access is reflected in the clever and creative vision.

Greater Geelong is looking to achieve a Digital Inclusive Index score greater than 70 — currently the region ranks at 58.7.

Enhanced broadband services will help achieve this by providing internet speeds up to 10 times faster than currently available.

“Digital inclusion is a priority for the City of Greater Geelong. As more of our daily activities move online there is a growing need to be digitally savvy and be able to fully participate in economic and social aspects of life. Today’s announcement will ensure that digital access is available for more people in our region,” said Acting Mayor Peter Murrihy.

People will be able to download up to 1 GB free a day, with 135 Wi-Fi access points across 34 locations.

The city will consult with the local community early in 2019 to determine the final and most beneficial locations for the free Wi-Fi.

This project also links to the Smart Cities and Suburbs grant the city received earlier this year, by providing smart city Infrastructure and connectivity for community benefit.

“This investment is a great outcome for Northern Geelong residents and businesses and aligns with our community’s clever and creative vision by improving digital access and unlocking the opportunities enabled by faster and better connections,” said Cr Anthony Aitken, Windermere ward.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Kaspars Grinvalds

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