Media Statements - Remote Aboriginal communities connected through satellite technology

16/06/05

Satellite technology has unlocked the communication world for six remote Aboriginal communities through new videoconferencing facilities.

Local Government and Regional Development Minister John Bowler today announced the implementation of videoconferencing technology in the remote communities of Djarindjin, Jarlmadangah, Ringer Soak, Nookanbah, Tjuntjuntjara and Balgo.

Mr Bowler said limitations to land-based telecommunications infrastructure had prevented the establishment of videoconferencing services in these regional communities and the new facilities allowed people to attend meetings, conduct job interviews, participate in workplace training or keep in contact with family and friends.

“The Department of Local Government and Regional Development is assisting telecentres with the use of satellite technology to establish videoconferencing services that have been available to metropolitan and other rural communities for a number of years,” the Minister said.

“This will inevitably save time and money by reducing the need to travel to regional centres to access services.”

The new telecentre videoconferencing sites would be incorporated into the network of more than 80 telecentres based throughout the State’s country areas.

“Telecentres, and the videoconferencing services they provide, are a vital resource facility for our smaller regional Western Australian communities,” Mr Bowler said.

“This is an excellent example of the Government’s commitment to ensuring indigenous remote communities are given a wider choice in determining their future.”

Further information about the network is available from Department of Local Government and Regional Development on 9217 1500, freecall (country callers) 1800 620 511 or http://www.dlgrd.wa.gov.au

Minister's office: 9213 6500