In this section

• Regional Agents map (File size: 428Kb)
• Regional Agents contacts (File size: 28Kb)
• Attachment A: Community phones map (File size: 65Kb)
• Community telephones to remote Indigenous communities - expressions of interest are now closed

Related links

• Indigenous portal
• Indigenous Coordination Centres
• Telecommunications Action Plan for Remote Indigenous Communities (TAPRIC)

Contacts

 

The Backing Indigenous Ability Telecommunications Program (BIA Program) is a $36.6 million initiative to help improve communications services in remote Indigenous communities. It is designed to address the need for telephones, internet and videoconferencing, provide training and skills development and promote and develop Indigenous online content.

News

Update: 31 October 2008

Internet Access element implementation changes

Following a review of its design and implementation model, the BIA Internet Access element has changed. Communities approved to receive computer equipment and $10 000 operational funding in Round 1 will be offered a funding agreement variation, allowing them to spend the funding before 30 June 2009 on increasing public internet access in their communities. Program staff  implementing these changes are in contact with those affected.

All other BIA Program elements are continuing to be rolled out, including Community Phone installations in communities with populations below 50 that do not currently have access to a public payphone. Installation of videoconferencing equipment and basic computer training will also continue in the communities that were approved to receive these in Round 1. The majority of Round 1 Indigenous Online Content projects should be completed and operational by the end of December 2008.

BIA Program future rounds on hold (Videoconferencing, Training and Indigenous Online Content)

Applications for funding received under Round 2 are on hold pending a review of the remaining Round 1 elements planned for early 2009.

Community Telephones

Applications from potential providers of Community Phones to Remote Indigenous Communities have closed and are now being assessed.

• Attachment A: Community Phones Map (File size: 65Kb)

For more information call 1800 355 014 or email bia@dbcde.gov.au

Maps

• Indigenous communities remoteness structure map (File size: 118Kb)
• Colour Indigenous communities remoteness structure map (File size: 914Kb)
• Find your nearest ICC: Indigenous Coordination Centres regions map (File size: 1.1Mb)
• Regional Agents map (File size: 428Kb)