West receives IT wake-up
MANY Central West residents numbed by slow and shonky internet services may be stirred into action upon learning research now proves that when it comes to technology, the bush is way behind the eight ball.
Furthermore, on an international platform, Australia tails the pack.
Remote Area Planning and Development (RAPAD) board general manager David Arnold said preliminary feedback from the Broadband for the Bush survey revealed serious concerns about price and access, and a general lack of knowledge in the community about the benefits of broadband services.
"Interestingly our research reflects another recent report which says that broadband take–up is low and Australia compares unfavourably against other Western economies," Mr Arnold said.
"While those on broadband identify the benefits to their business or personal life, many are still unaware of what broadband actually is.
"There are also people who want broadband and are frustrated with their present dial-up services but access or price is inhibiting them."
Typifying the experiences of rural internet users to date, Mr Arnold recounted a resident of the Isisford Shire who said her dial-up internet drops out around five times an hour and is agonisingly slow.
Another reported that having broadband had changed how she ran her business and educated her children.
As technology infrastructure in the region improves, many believe the advantages to isolated families will be far reaching.
"Availability of fast broadband services at competitive prices is quite simply a necessity if the Central West is to maintain business and lifestyle equity with the rest of the State, nation and world. Local councils know that these broadband networks are required in order to build knowledge-based communities.
"Good broadband nowadays is a must in promoting our region or town to business and investors, tourists and new home owners."
The simple RAPAD Connect survey can be completed online at http://suncoast-broadband.net.au/rapad/ or in person by calling the RAPAD office on 4658 3301.
Furthermore, on an international platform, Australia tails the pack.
Remote Area Planning and Development (RAPAD) board general manager David Arnold said preliminary feedback from the Broadband for the Bush survey revealed serious concerns about price and access, and a general lack of knowledge in the community about the benefits of broadband services.
"Interestingly our research reflects another recent report which says that broadband take–up is low and Australia compares unfavourably against other Western economies," Mr Arnold said.
"While those on broadband identify the benefits to their business or personal life, many are still unaware of what broadband actually is.
"There are also people who want broadband and are frustrated with their present dial-up services but access or price is inhibiting them."
Typifying the experiences of rural internet users to date, Mr Arnold recounted a resident of the Isisford Shire who said her dial-up internet drops out around five times an hour and is agonisingly slow.
Another reported that having broadband had changed how she ran her business and educated her children.
As technology infrastructure in the region improves, many believe the advantages to isolated families will be far reaching.
"Availability of fast broadband services at competitive prices is quite simply a necessity if the Central West is to maintain business and lifestyle equity with the rest of the State, nation and world. Local councils know that these broadband networks are required in order to build knowledge-based communities.
"Good broadband nowadays is a must in promoting our region or town to business and investors, tourists and new home owners."
The simple RAPAD Connect survey can be completed online at http://suncoast-broadband.net.au/rapad/ or in person by calling the RAPAD office on 4658 3301.
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