In another groundbreaking act of inclusion, the Australian Government has proudly announced generous digital funding opportunities specifically for First Nations communities… well, specifically for five organisations that were already chosen.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy enthusiastically declared:
“We are thrilled to announce our commitment to digital inclusion… However, inclusion doesn’t mean everyone can apply – just those who already know about it.”
The programs, totalling $22 million will help First Nations Australians bridge the digital divide, as long as they belong to one of the handpicked people pre-approved by the government.
Eligible applicants – First Nations Media Australia, Indigenous Technology, Land on Heart, Pilbara and Kimberly Aboriginal Media and The Centre for Appropriate Technology – are invited to participate in a “competitive” grant process.
“We consulted widely before deciding not to invite most organisations” clarified a departmental spokesperson. “It’s competitive – just not openly competitive“.
The Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland said “Digital inclusion is essential – so we carefully excluded almost everyone to streamline the process”.
When asked why only five organisations can apply, the government stated it was to “simplify the process and ensure inclusion was manageable and controlled”.
A representative from an excluded Indigenous organisation commented, “It’s comforting to know that when the government says ‘everyone’, they mean ‘hardly anyone’.”
Applications closed 13 March 2025 – good luck to everyone (those select few who were) invited.
And for those not invited, the government encourages optimism, resilience and perhaps better luck next decade.
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