Digital inclusion refers to the learning programmes, initiatives and actions being undertaken as we work towards better digital equity for all.
Why is it important?
In this information-centric world, increasingly everything is done online More services and buying and selling are going exclusively online as well as government services such as passport applications and renewals, as well as access to tax and pension records—so those who don’t have access are becoming increasingly disadvantaged.
There is still a high percentage of households without internet access as identified in the latest 2018 Census, so many in Aotearoa New Zealand are still digitally excluded in some way.
“Access to the digital world is now a basic necessity, just like running water to a house. Yet at least 10% of people in Aotearoa are digitally excluded and over 20% struggle to access necessary services to get on with life.” Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa (DECA).
Digital inclusion is important in making sure that all people have the ability to use the internet to do the things online that benefit them from day to day.
A digitally-included person, whānau or community has convenient, reliable access to affordable, accessible digital devices (such as computers or smart phones) and an internet connection (through fibre, broadband, wi-fi and mobile), and can confidently use them in their day-to-day life.
Our role
We offer a range of programmes working hard to achieve a significant reduction in digital exclusion in high-need communities.
The four elements of digital inclusion
There are four interdependent digital inclusion elements — access, skills, motivation and trust as shown below. These are at the core of all our programmes.
