Far West NSW and Broken Hill
Digital Economy Strategy
Draft for Consultation
Released 16 December 2011 1 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digital Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Developed by
Symphony3 www.symphony3.com
Regional Development Australia Far West NSW www.rdafarwestnsw.org.au
Broken Hill City Council www.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au
2 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digital Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
One of the magnificent sculptures, on the outskirts of Broken Hill at the Living Desert Find out more at http://www.visitbrokenhill.com.au/pages/the-living-desert-sculptures/
3 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digital Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Contents
Introduction ...... 6 Approach ...... 6 The Framework ...... 7 The Cluster Effect ...... 8 Digital Economy Goals ...... 9 Business...... 9 Creative Industries ...... 10 Mining ...... 14 Tourism ...... 15 Small and Medium Enterprises ...... 16 Agriculture ...... 19 Households ...... 20 Low Socio-Economic Households ...... 21 The Digital Divide ...... 23 Local Government ...... 24 Broken Hill City Council ...... 24 Central Darling Shire Council ...... 27 The Unincorporated Area of Far West NSW ...... 28 Health and Aged Care ...... 29 Education ...... 34 Environment ...... 37 Next Steps ...... 39 Your Input ...... 40 APPENDIX ...... 41 About Far West NSW ...... 41 Key Regional Goals ...... 42
4 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digital Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Dear Friends of Far West NSW
In the Far West New South Wales (NSW) The rollout of high speed broadband presents region of Australia, we believe the strengths the Far West NSW region with the best that our community has displayed in the past opportunity it has had in generations to are the same strengths that can be revitalised develop our businesses and industries, and to with internet technology to drive our future. support all our residents in the region. We The digital economy and high speed wish to progress our region as a whole and broadband will provide the foundations for truly commit to building an environmentally Far West NSW to become a leading region in and commercially sustainable community. This Australia (and the world) in: strategy shares with you how our region intends to capitalise on this exciting new exporting core mining skills and technology. mining expertise across the globe developing unique rural creative This strategy document will be available for industry services public comment until 31 March 2012, and is delivering remote education considered a living, changing document. It’s a methodologies and processes digital economy strategy; therefore we will be delivering remote health accepting feedback on our website methodologies and processes (www.digitalfarwestnsw.com.au) by way of offering unique and iconic tourism the comments section on the bottom of each experiences that encapsulate outback page. However, given the current Australia infrastructure constraints in sections of our region, and the inability of some people to Whilst the region has some social challenges, access the internet, we will also be accepting including disenfranchised low income families, paper-based comments. high unemployment, health issues, and disengaged youth, high speed broadband like It is to be acknowledged that this strategy that delivered by the National Broadband development has been jointly funded by RDA Network (NBN) provides the opportunity to Far West NSW and the Broken Hill City tackle these issues in a variety of new ways. Council. Thanks go to all the local stakeholders However, unless access to the digital economy and community members who assisted in is made available to all, there is a danger of a development of this early draft for “digital divide” developing. The Far West consultation. We gratefully acknowledge the NSW region is committed to ensuring that superior knowledge and understanding of this from the outset we build an inclusive strategy topic by our chosen subject matter expert, that will address the issue of a digital divide. Fergal Coleman of Symphony3. What is more, the processes and strategies built in this region to counter the digital divide We look forward to your input in helping can become a blueprint for narrowing the gap shape this strategy. throughout regional Australia. Yours sincerely
Linda Nadge Frank Zaknich Executive Officer General Manager RDA Far West NSW Broken Hill City Council
5 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Introduction Approach
The purpose of this digital economy strategy The digital economy is more than pipes in the is to provide a guiding document for the Far ground. There is no doubt that the West NSW region to maximise use of high infrastructure is an important enabler, speed broadband and to enable the however the digital economy is really about community to embrace the future digital people being enabled to work together more economy with confidence. effectively. It’s about companies bringing their products and services to the world. It’s about The document outlines our overall approach, young and old receiving the health care they followed by sections outlining how high speed need no matter where in the country they broadband will benefit the following areas: live. It’s about our children being able to Business access world class education ensuring they Households (Including Low Socio- have a positive and productive future and can Economic Households) fulfil their potential. Local Government In our approach, we view high speed Health and Aged Care broadband not as an end in itself, but simply Education as a medium that will allow the region to Environment better build on and promote its existing strengths and capabilities. As Dr Tim Williams Each section includes a future vision, explains, “We don’t talk about an electricity discusses the current state and opportunities, economy”1. Electricity is simply an enabler we and concludes with recommended actions. take for granted. The digital economy and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLwIlsuJ high speed broadband should be viewed in H3M the same light.
We acknowledge the overall national digital economy strategy and have replicated the structure of the national strategy in our regional digital strategy. We have addressed the eight goals of the national strategy within this strategy2. This digital strategy also provides a supporting role to the broader RDA Far West NSW Regional Plan 2011-2021 (see relevant excerpts in Appendix).
Wilcannia dancers, performing at the National Indigenous Land and Sea Management Conference in Broken Hill, November, 2010 1 http://www.huawei.com.au/connectingcommunities/ 2 http://www.nbn.gov.au/the- vision/digitaleconomystrategy/
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The Framework
The framework we use is a simple Now-Where-How approach in relation to each goal:
Now: What is the current state in the region now Where: What is the future vision for the organisation How: What actions must be taken in the coming months and years
This strategy recognises that, as with any new technologies, it is difficult (if not impossible) to understand what the overall impact of the NBN will be. Also, such is the extremely poor internet service we currently receive in the region that any digital economy strategy is heavily dependent on the rollout of the NBN in the region. The region is hopeful of being among the list of rollout sites to be announced early in the project3. However, it is also possible that the region will have to wait up to nine years to get the NBN. During this time, the nature of the rollout may change as new technologies become available, government priorities change, and as governments themselves change. As such, this strategy needs to remain flexible so as to adapt as new opportunities or limitations arise.
To cater for the variables, we are adopting an emergent strategy approach to the digital economy:
“Emergent Strategy is the vision towards strategy formation that emphasises the benefits of letting the strategy emerge as things gradually become apparent. Try before you commit. Strategy is viewed as an ongoing process of constant learning, experimentation and risk- taking. It is an adaptive, incremental and complex learning process in which the ends and means are intertwined and often specified simultaneously” 4.
Artistic impression in Silverton, 20 minutes drive west of Broken Hill
3 The NBN rollout program can be found at http://www.nbn.gov.au/about-the-nbn/follow-the-rollout/ 4 www.12manage.com and http://www.wiwi.europa- uni.de/de/lehrstuhl/mm/ufo/lehre/kursuebersicht/StO/Mintzberg_1985.pdf
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The Cluster Effect
The Far West NSW region has some core Strategy. Silicon Valley in California is perhaps strengths and capabilities which ought to be the best known example. A key part of the developed and used for competitive success of Silicon Valley is its connectedness advantage in the future. Our approach is to to the global world. We will maintain and focus on how we can develop clusters of develop core skills and expertise within our people and organisations around some of our region but also be open enough to learn from, core areas of expertise. The cluster collaborate, and share our expertise with the development concept of economic wider world. development has been advocated by Michael Finally, in presenting this strategy, we feel it is Porter and others since the late 1990’s and important to show our community and the can be explained as follows: broader world that we are already embracing “Clusters are geographic concentrations of the digital economy; we are an innovative and interconnected companies, specialised suppliers, creative community; and we can go along way service providers, and associated institutions in a with limited resources. We want your help in particular field that are present in a region. developing our strategy. Clusters arise because they increase the productivity with which companies can compete. We have developed a digital economy The development and upgrading of clusters is an strategy that is digital and web-based. It is important agenda for governments, companies, built on free Wordpress blogging software. 5 and other institutions.” We have used a $200 digital camera to record our interviews with the community. We have We acknowledge that in recent years there uploaded the interviews on YouTube and has been much criticism of this approach and embedded them into the strategy itself. These there are reports that recommend that videos illustrate that the ideas in this strategy regions should focus on global connectedness are those of a broad section of the and collaboration over regional expertise6. community. We encourage you, as an There is also the middle ground that is an important member of our community, to approach recognised by technology leaders participate and share your thoughts. You can such as Cisco. In 2010, Cisco published a paper comment on each page on the website using called “Next Generation Clusters: Creating the comments feature. If you have additional Innovation Hubs to Boost Economic Growth”. ideas, videos or other useful information for They argue that with high speed broadband our region’s strategy, then please feel you can have regional clusters that are welcome to send this to us. If the people of globally connected. The digital economy Iceland and Egypt can crowdsource their provides the opportunity to have regional respective constitutions, we can collaborate clusters in the most remote areas that are on ideas for our digital economy7. inter-connected to the wider world. This is the thinking we have adopted with the Far West
NSW and Broken Hill Digital Economy 7 See http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jun/09/iceland- 5 http://www.isc.hbs.edu/econ-clusters.htm. crowdsourcing-constitution-facebook and 6 http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on- http://spot.us/pitches/986-the-cloud-in-egypt-help-or- innovations/industry-clusters-the-modern-day-snake- hype/updates/1072-constitutional-crowdsourcing-site- oil/2011/06/19/gIQAMtx3EI_story.html. launched [Accessed 14 November 2011].
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The resulting business actions are outlined at Digital Economy Goals the conclusion of the detailed sections.
Business Teleworking is specifically considered in relevant sections. It is a simple concept but
we believe it can greatly assist business in By 2021, businesses in the Far West NSW Broken Hill and the Far West NSW region. Teleworking includes “work undertaken at region will have the skills and expertise home, use of mobile devices in transit or at a available to them, either within their business different place of business (telecentres)”9. In or in the community, to enable them to use our region, extensive use of fly-in, fly-out and the internet to run their businesses more drive-in, drive-out work arrangements has efficiently and to expand into new global been linked to the decline of population in the markets. Furthermore, by developing these region, removal of business and government internet skills8, we envisage new businesses services from the region, and the general hollowing out of inland Australia as the emerging in the region to take advantage of population seeks to find work and social new opportunities presented by the digital opportunities in the major coastal urban economy. centres.
This section has been divided into five Technology (including teleworking) offers our business sub-sections and deals with the region a solution to this phenomenon and current challenges and opportunities for each could help to increase availability and section. The digital economy will provide retention of skills in the region and facilitate great opportunities for specialised and unique population growth. businesses and the aim of RDA Far West NSW is to build those specialised and unique businesses within our identified clusters (creative industries, mining, tourism and also in remote health, and remote education which are covered in the health and education sectors).
The five sub-sections are:
Creative Industries Mining Tourism Small and Medium Enterprises Agriculture Cotton harvesting, Menindee, 2011
8 *We use the term ‘internet skills’ broadly. It includes technical knowledge, digital marketing knowledge, 9 National Digital Economy Strategy, p. 6, understanding of changing business models and http://www.nbn.gov.au/the- innovation. vision/digitaleconomystrategy/
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Creative Industries
The creative industries offer Broken Hill and surrounds an opportunity to develop new industry and business in the region. The skills, expertise and the infrastructure required to develop these industries already in exists in our region. We have broken this section into 3 categories:
Artists and Art Galleries The Film Industry The Creative Industries and Innovation Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Develop the Broken Hill Film This will show the BHCC10, RDA11 Far July 2012 Funding will be Studio as a high speed broadband potential of the West NSW actively sought test site. internet and kick-start the development of the film precinct. Undertake a feasibility study into This will develop a BHCC July 2012 BHCC, RDA Far development of a creative single location for West NSW to business hub in the Film Studio. creative professionals facilitate grant to work, meet and funds. collaborate. Continue to collaborate with local An identified project RDA Far West Septemb Creating local artists and organisations to exists and can be NSW will er 2012 organising develop an annual arts festival for promoted via digital continue to group early Far West NSW, and aim to link marketing. coordinate, assist, 2012. with Australia’s first solar art other community exhibition in Broken Hill. groups.
Pete Blasina, the “Gadget Guy”, in Broken Hill addressing school students on technology trends, 2010
10 BHCC refers to Broken Hill City Council 11 RDA refers to Regional Development Australia in Far West NSW
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The digital economy will provide an Artists and Art Galleries opportunity for some artists to supplement their income by providing graphic design Current State and Future Vision services to local businesses. This will require some reskilling to transfer their artistic skills Broken Hill and the Far West NSW region is to a new medium and training courses need already renowned for world class artists such to be made available. Acquiring these new as the Brushmen of the Bush,12 and regional skills will allow artists to stay in Broken Hill art galleries display works of indigenous and also provide additional artistic and artists such as Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, creative skills to small business. At present, Michael Nelson Tjackamarra, and William graphic design skills are not readily available Sandy. High speed broadband provides an in the area, resulting in a lot of graphic design unprecedented opportunity for today’s artists work being sent to Sydney and Melbourne for to share their art with a world audience. completion. Broken Hill is known for its cluster of artists, and there is no reason why local artists cannot work more closely together and pool resources to promote Broken Hill and the Far The Film Industry West artists as a collective. This would also entice tourists to the region. Current State and Future Vision
High speed broadband will also make it The Far West NSW region has provided the possible to have artists present to Broken Hill backdrop for some world-famous movies audiences virtually via web conferencing. including ‘Mad Max II’, ‘Priscilla Queen of the Bruce Tindale, Manager of the Broken Hill Art Desert’ and ‘Mission Impossible II’. As the Film Gallery spoke to us at length about the Broken Hill website points out, this is due to a possibilities. In reverse, artists in the Broken wide range of factors including: Hill area will be able to deliver talks on their work to audiences anywhere in the world via Easy access to the outback the virtual medium. Landscape o Semi-arid desert with red Australian Indigenous art is world renowned. dust, scrub and saltbush High speed broadband will enable virtual art o Endless blue sky classes to be delivered to students anywhere o Rocky gorges and waterholes in the world. This could provide an additional o The tranquil Menindee Lakes revenue stream to artists who may not earn system enough from selling paintings. o The beautiful Darling River Architecture With broadband internet, artists will have the o Grand Victorian buildings opportunity to adapt traditional or classic art o Industrial buildings from the skills such as painting and sculpture to newer mining industry digital arts. Digital artworks can easily be o Timber shearing sheds and shared with people from around the world, corrugated iron houses with meaning that artists can show their creations garden and rock features to a much bigger audience. Other constructed from ore pulled communication tools, including internet TV from the ground and social media, will enable our Indigenous Low costs people to enhance the marketing and development of their art works. The region’s leaders, and in particular the Broken Hill City Council, have recognised 12 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brushmen_of_the_Bush these factors and even before the
11 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011 announcement of the NBN, developed a plan To have high speed wireless access to build a vibrant film industry in the region. available to tourists and short-term workers within the whole studio precinct Central to the development of this industry – it is envisaged that many of the visitors has been the opening of the new Broken Hill will be creative people themselves and if Film Studio13. This major project saw the they are provided with internet access renovation of the old Central Power Station will be likely to share their experiences in into a large studio warehouse. The new studio real time via social media or in near real provides a remarkable opportunity for the city time via personal blogs15, vlogs16 and to reinvigorate itself and to generate websites. significant revenues as a result. The film To develop video training courses within studio is forecast to have an economic impact the studio precinct – for example, a tie- of $23m over 10 years and to support around up between the film and mining industry 30 full time equivalent (FTE) jobs. could lead to mining IPTV channels; To develop a premium tourism While the studio can obviously be leased to experience that only Broken Hill could film production companies, it can also be offer based on its iconic 120 year mining utilised in a variety of other ways. In history utilising existing technology, like developing this strategy we visited the studio that developed by the mining school at and spoke with Film Broken Hill manager UNSW – for example, tourists could enjoy Lyndall Roberts about using the NBN to a thrilling virtual underground mining maximise the opportunities for the studio, experience in the peak tourism season or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNqzCTn workers could benefit from excellence in hC60 . A major issue is internet access to the virtual reality mining and emergency Film Studio, safety training at other times. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_E2czNg sVg .
While the Film Studio managers are frustrated by the current internet service, they are excited by the potential of high speed broadband and have considered how the NBN would greatly assist with the project, including the ability:
To send large film files electronically to editing staff around the world; Inside the Broken Hill film studio, 2011 For local people to use the facility to create and produce their own IPTV14 channels and perhaps a radio station;
13 http://www.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au/images/documents/ brokenhill/mig/45819- Broken_Hill_Film_Studio_and_Precinct_Business_Plan_ Report_Presentation_July_2010.pdf and 15 Blogs, a blend of the term “web log”, is a type of http://www.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au/images/documents/ website that allows people to access and update with brokenhill/mig/43338- comments and information (like the one we are BrokenHillFilmStudioandPrecinctBusinessPlanSummary. proposing for our Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digital pdf Economy Strategy on wordpress.com) 14 IPTV is the delivery of television services using the 16 Vlogs, like blogs, but encompassing video clips. Coined internet. from the term “video blogging”
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Broken Hill film studio – future development plans
running his own business, Jason is developing Creative Industries and Innovation an annual film festival in Broken Hill, and is on a committee that is looking to reinvigorate a Current State and Future Vision local shopping precinct. Central to both ideas is the use of the internet. Providing people The creative industries can bring a range of like Jason with access to high speed additional benefits to the area beyond mere broadband is essential. It enables them to film and art income. An additional benefit of unleash their creativity and to connect with having a creative cluster in the community is like-minded people around the world that they can share their creativity, innovation and imagination with the overall business As Tom Friedman, the author of “The World is community. The creative spark and an ability Flat” noted in the NY Times17: to think laterally will become an ever increasing asset in the global digital economy. “Today, just about everything is becoming a commodity, except imagination, except the An example of this innovation and creativity in ability to spark new ideas. If I just have the the area is Jason King, owner of Bells milk bar. spark of an idea now, I can get a designer in A visit to his milk bar is like stepping back into Taiwan to design it. I can get a factory in the late 1950’s and his shop has become a China to produce a prototype. I can get a favourite destination for visitors to Broken factory in Vietnam to mass manufacture it. I Hill. He has successfully leveraged the internet can use Amazon.com to handle fulfilment. I to sell souvenirs and other fifties can use freelancer.com to find someone to memorabilia. Creative and innovative people, do my logo and manage my backroom. And I like Jason, are essential to the creation of a vibrant community. For example, as well as 17 Tom Friedman, NY Times Editorial, 20 March 2010
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can do all this at incredibly low prices. The Examples include: one thing that is not a commodity and never will be is that spark of an idea.” Reducing the number of ‘fly-in, fly-out’ employees in the region by using NBN With the creation of the film industry precinct enabled services such as reliable VOIP18, area, there is an opportunity to create a IPTV, and online entertainment (games, “working hub /future workplace” in the film etc) – these are enhancements that will studio or surrounding precinct. This workplace improve the quality of life for new would embrace hot-desking and an open employees as well as existing permanent environment that lends itself to collaboration, residents who currently do not have co-creation and innovation. These new access to these services because of poor workplaces are currently available in some of infrastructure; the major cities. An example is Hub Companies that operate in multiple Melbourne, which describes itself as “a countries, such as Perilya Ltd, sending professional member community that enables large data sets around the world via the innovation through collaboration. We host internet; co-working spaces, curate experiences and Sharing the mining expertise that exists catalyse connections for diverse individuals in the community around the world using and organisations.” The film studio project video conferencing provides an excellent opportunity to set up a In the longer term, virtual mine tours similar workplace that would fit well with the could be created to help attract tourists needs of the creative services industry. Hub to the region as well as virtual tourists Melbourne can be approached to help bring Video conferencing and virtual tours the hub concept to Broken Hill as the owners could be used to deliver remote are interested in expanding the franchise to education to students around the world, regional areas. particularly in mining related courses. For example, mineral deposits could be taken Mining from the ground and shown to students around the world Current State and Future Vision See Perilya’s video clip on how high speed The mining industry has traditionally been the broadband can facilitate employee major source of employment in the region. engagement, operations and improved While this has slowed in the past few decades, communications, mining is still a significant employer in Broken http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5tIm5gr Hill and throughout the region. Major mineral VN8 . deposits in the area suggest that mining could see growth in the coming years (see the RDA Far West NSW Regional Plan 2011-21 http://www.rdafarwestnsw.org.au/default.as p?PageID=RegionalPlan , Economic Update for Far West NSW Nov 2011, http://www.rdafarwestnsw.org.au/default.as p?PageID=WhatsNew .)
Heritage from a century of mining, Broken Hill The mining sector can utilise high speed broadband in myriad ways that would benefit employees, individual companies and the community at large.
18 VOIP is the ability to use the internet for voice communications.
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Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources IT professionals to form a Education on the benefits of Local IT From Local IT network to facilitate the NBN and internet. Many professionals. 2012 professionals information sharing on managers are overly These are business benefits of high speed concerned about loss of opportunities for broadband, assist with control, inability to supervise local service removal of barriers to staff, employees wasting providers. increased use of technology, time, and fears about data provide awareness sessions security and privacy. Often (e.g. cloud services, use of manager don’t have the social media). IT professionals knowledge to make the best to work with the mining ICT19 decisions for their industry to find solutions to organisation. enable management of large data files, (e.g. exploration Current internet capacity and geological data). constraints impede efficient data management. Assist with the business to Some local businesses still use Local IT From Local IT business interface between fully manual systems; others professionals 2012 professionals regional suppliers to mining need e-commerce support. companies and also procurement from global sources.
Tourism
Current State and Future Vision
Whilst the Far West NSW region currently receives 200,000 visitors per annum, the tourist industry in the region is not as sophisticated as many other areas.
The digital economy can help to grow the tourist industry mostly through raising awareness of what the region has to offer. This complements some of the other areas of this report including:
Rebranding of Broken Hill – social media and the internet could, and should, be central to the relaunching of the brand. Smaller tourist operators who understand the internet and social media can “piggyback” on the overall rebranding to promote their own individual businesses Virtual mining tours as previously mentioned. Virtual tours range from: Simple panoramic views that can promote the area (see for example Uluru virtual tour20) More complex and immersive virtual tours using sophisticated software. Tools like secondlife.com have been trialled and used by large companies and institutions (IBM, Dell MIT) to provide virtual training and are slowly bringing virtual lives to a mainstream audience. This technology will continue to improve and gain traction with users as broadband becomes ubiquitous Providing public wi-fi access to visiting tourists is essential in the era of social media – these tourists are likely to post videos, pictures and comments to Facebook and Twitter pages in
19 ICT refers to information and communication technologies 20 http://embed.panedia.com/vst/vtplayer?map=pwbdpllf
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real time if they have access to the internet. This word of mouth marketing via the internet is a new channel for generating more interest in Broken Hill as a tourist destination Live-casting/web-cams of key attractions will promote the region. Examples include: wildlife webcams at watering holes where animals congregate, live casting of indigenous music performances
Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Encourage coordinated use of Currently the region BHCC, tourism Ongoing BHCC, tourism the Broken Hill brand amongst is not optimising the service providers. service providers businesses and community tourism organisations so as to send a opportunities clear and consistent message available to it about Broken Hill to tourists and prospective visitors Setup of web cams at natural Highlight beauty, RDA Far West NSW During Tourist areas of significance e.g. expanse, and to seek interest 2012 associations in Menindee Lakes. biodiversity of our from Menindee region, other natural environment. based tourism supporting operators. organisations. Create an environmental blog Encourage RDA Far West NSW During Community about Menindee lakes and the environmental to facilitate with 2012 stakeholders. prospective listing of a Ramsar improvements, local organisations. site in the region (see tourism. www.ramsar.org).
Small and Medium Enterprises
Current State and Future Vision
The importance to businesses of embracing the digital economy cannot be underestimated. In fact, with or without high speed broadband, no business can afford to ignore the internet in their strategy. This was emphasised in a recent report from McKinsey21 based on research of over 3000 small and medium enterprises worldwide:
"All business leaders…. should put the internet at the top of their strategic agenda. Business leaders must optimise the benefits gleaned from the internet through innovation and change. It is no longer a choice, given that many businesses face competitors who capitalise on the power of the internet to innovate business models. Business leaders should…. systematically review how the internet allows them to innovate more aggressively and even reinvent their business models to boost growth, performance, and productivity. In particular, businesses should constantly try to identify up-and-coming internet trends that have the potential to increase the impact of their efforts…”
21 http://www.mckinsey.com/Insights/MGI/Research/Technology_and_Innovation/Internet_matters. These findings tally with another McKinsey report on Web 2.0 usage , Web2.0 finds its payday http://www.mckinseyquarterly.com/The_rise_of_the_networked_enterprise_Web_20_finds_its_payday_2716 and with a recent Deloitte report on Australian business use of the internet: http://www.connectedcontinent.com.au/
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Some key findings in the report included:
10% increase in productivity for small and medium businesses from internet usage 2.6 jobs created for every job lost 75% of internet impact arises from traditional industries Small and medium businesses heavily using web technologies grow and export two times as much as other businesses
The McKinsey report emphasised that the internet is still in its infancy, and that we can expect even greater changes and opportunities in the coming years. The NBN provides the opportunity for businesses in the region to put the internet at the centre of their future strategies and to grow their businesses.
While the literature illustrates why Far West NSW businesses (and Broken Hill businesses in particular) should be embracing the internet, the business community has identified a shortage of expertise in areas that are vital to online success. These include:
Graphic design and online branding capabilities – many companies send artwork to graphic designers in Sydney and Melbourne as the skills are not available in the region (e.g. Pro-Hart gallery); Understanding of ecommerce (for example, how to set up online stores, the implications for traditional business models); Digital marketing expertise (including search engine optimisation, social media marketing); Change management skills; Teleworking opportunities.
As such, the region must start developing these capabilities within the business community.
Internet services like cloud computing22, video, online collaboration tools and the digital transmission of large data files are increasingly common in urban areas. Unfortunately, the Far West NSW region lags behind in all these areas. The current digital infrastructure makes these services unfeasible in the Far West NSW region and it stops innovation and creativity. For a region that is used to finding solutions to problems, it is hard to accept that solutions are beyond our reach until we gain access to high speed broadband.
The region and the city of Broken Hill have some new generation business owners who already have a good understanding of how to leverage the internet. One successful company, which is maximising use of the internet, is Tri State Safaris23. Bells Milk Bar and Accidently Outback, two innovative local businesses, are also using the internet to grow their business effectively by reaching more potential customers. Click on the links to these videos of locals who are already using technology for their business, or who have grand ideas for the future when the enabling technology is rolled out ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QCFjoLWRCg,
22 Cloud computing is the term used to describe the growing tendency to deliver computing services over the internet (mainly software, but also some hardware services like data storage) as in the future we are more likely to access services through third parties. 23 http://www.tristate.com.au/html/s01_home/home.asp
17 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgHgN6teUgg, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnIWtVgMT38 ) Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Provide education about uses of To learn the Broken Hill Throughout Local skills – and high speed broadband to the benefits and enable Chamber of 2012 and we will seek to business community – for example, leveraging of Commerce24 beyond outsource via workshops and seminars, technology to and RDA Far mentoring and showcasing some of the best online promote growth in West NSW, other services businesses in the area via case business, Enterprise as opportunities studies and inviting those businesses employment in the Development permit. to present at events to other local region. Centre25, others businesses.
Development of future workplaces Hub Broken Hill can RDA Far West 2012 Future (like Hub Melbourne) in Broken Hill. help budding NSW, others discussions with entrepreneurs and BHCC, Central inspire new Darling Shire business. Council, others Development of business specific To ensure our local Broken Hill Throughout Australian training to put together a training business Chamber of 2012 Flexible curriculum for local businesses. This enterprises have Commerce, Learning should include best practice in knowledge of latest Enterprise Framework26, business. technology and can Development others use it. Centre, RDA Far West, BHCC, others. Establish networking events to share To develop and Local IT Throughout Local experiences with technologies embed knowledge professionals to 2012 professionals including cloud services, social and skills at the start regular employed in ICT media, and online business and e- local level. networking and technology commerce. events. roles, others. Completion of film studio and (See Creative BHCC July 2012 BHCC update the plan to develop a Industries section) creative precinct around the studio grounds. Create virtual art galleries and Promote our arts BHCC Regional During 2012 Local resources exhibitions – ensure global reach and iconic tourist Art Gallery, and beyond and funding and awareness to facilitate attractions from other galleries. opportunities. development of new businesses in the region online region, attract creative industries and assist with businesses, facilitate tourism economic growth growth, and contribute to and development. innovation in the arts.
24 www.businessbrokenhill.com.au 25 http://www.bhedc.com.au 26 www.flexiblelearning.net.au/
18 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Agriculture
Current State and Future Vision
Agriculture is one of the areas where internet technologies can be utilised to great effect. High speed broadband enables the collection of large amounts of data. For agriculture this can be vitally important as it enables better use of scarce resources.
The CSIRO and the University of New South Wales currently have a Smart Farm in Menindee grapes operation in Armidale New South Wales. Broadband connectivity takes SMART Farming As the University of New South Wales states to a whole new level. SMART Farmers will be on its website: capable of accessing the best, external, operational support informed by “The ability to remotely monitor, evaluate and contemporary data exported from distributed manage much of a farm’s operations has the networks of soil, plant, livestock, machinery potential to provide enormous gains around and environmental sensors.” inputs and productivity. Spatially-enabled tools and techniques underpin Sustainable, For more: Manageable and Accessible Rural Technologies, or SMART Farming that will http://www.une.edu.au/smart/nbnsmart.php increase crop and pasture yields through better targeting of water and/or fertiliser http://www.une.edu.au/une- inputs and increase livestock production nbn/presentations/july/david-lamb.mov through improved animal management and increased pasture utilisation. SMART Farming In early 2012 we will be talking to the larger also offers the means to achieve improved agricultural businesses in our area and seeking environmental outcomes through highly their specific feedback on how we may efficient use of resources; spatially-enabled engage with SMART Farming techniques. This technologies can reduce the water and carbon section will be updated in the final report due footprint of farming. out 31 March 2012. Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Consult with major Drivers include the Murray RDA Far West March 2012 Internal agriculture companies in Darling Basin Plan (also out NSW the region to discuss for public consultation) and opportunities due to the region’s desire to assist future access to high with environmental speed broadband and improvements in the suitable actions to be in Menindee Lakes and the put in place. Darling River
19 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
available and as such find it difficult to Households envisage how high speed broadband will empower their lives. There are people in the Current State and Future Vision community who have a negative perception The end goal is to see every household in the of the internet, and the NBN due to internet Far West NSW region provided with high access promises made and broken in the past speed broadband access and education on the by internet service providers. However on a benefits of high speed internet, and how to more positive note, as one local remarked, it take advantage of those benefits. Far West is a case of a large percentage of the NSW has a high proportion of households that population “not knowing what they don’t fit into the categories of low income, aging, know”. If the awareness of the potential is indigenous and isolated. The challenge for increased, then people are more likely to leaders in the region is selling the vision of become engaged. what access to high speed broadband can Encouragingly, there are also residents we enable and how the digital economy will spoke to in Broken Hill who understand the improve their lives in many ways. potential of high speed broadband. One Due to the extremely poor internet coverage example is the retired couple Ken and Frankie, in the area, this will be a bigger challenge than who came to our briefing session. Ken was in other regions. Those with adequate ADSL taking a senior’s class on computers and both connections are already using tools like Skype, he and his wife well understood the value and an online video conferencing program, potential of an economy powered by high YouTube and Facebook for social networking. speed broadband. However, due to the low speeds and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRqnp7f4 inconsistent reliability of the internet in the OsM . Far West NSW region, many households are If we apply these benefits to the Far West yet to reach a stage where they have NSW region specifically we can see how it will sufficient knowledge of the tools that are foster a more vibrant community. Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do When Resources it Provide high speed internet Current lack of high Marketing by Throughout Social media, access to new residents to the speed connectivity. With BHCC, Central 2012 websites, region to encourage permanent a lower cost of living, Darling Shire literature relocation, rather than find fast internet and a great Council others produced for alternative fly-in fly-out sense of community, in region. regional arrangements as acceptable. families will find Broken marketing, High speed broadband can help Hill and Far West NSW a target grant to reduce ‘fly-in, fly out’ among more appealing place to programs. professionals in the mining and live. health sectors. The Far West NSW population decline can be reversed. Ability to buy online. Families Greater access to goods Broken Hill Throughout Identify grants moving from larger urban and services online is Chamber of 2012 to (a) support centres will no longer be desired. Also, local Commerce, training for local
20 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011 frustrated by the lack of variety businesses can prosper Enterprise businesses in e- in rural towns in terms of by accessing larger Development commerce and shopping. High speed broadband markets. Centre, (b) engage will make it more compelling to others. households in live in rural areas. Local shops use of online can gain the skills and technology technologies necessary to prosper in e- retailing. Provide residents with the ability We seek economic BHCC, Broken Throughout BHCC Library and knowledge to learn online growth in our region, but Hill Chamber 2012 kiosks, staff, and reach a greater variety of we also want the quality of Commerce, internet education courses, communicate of life and social EDC, other connections, globally using social networks, engagement for community various access entertainment services, individuals in our region organisations supporting engage with technological to be the best possible. and grant funds. advances in ‘smart homes’, We want lifestyle in our volunteers, access health and other specialist region to be made more some services – these are just some of enjoyable, rewarding registered the growing list of lifestyle due to the enabling training improvements being demanded features of technology. bodies. by residents in our region. Develop a formal course that is It is unclear whether the TAFE, BHCC, During 2012 Funding offered to the community “The digital hub funding will others will be assistance will Digital Household”. This course be provided beyond the included, e.g. be sought. will be developed and marketed first 40 NBN sites. The Central by both the local TAFE and BHCC. local councils need to Darling Shire, The courses should be offered provide leadership in Village free of charge. The course is to this area and in Committees in accelerate knowledge of what to conjunction with training Tibooburra, do with high speed broadband. need to market the Silverton. benefits of engagement with the NBN to households.
LOW SOCIO-ECONOMIC HOUSEHOLDS In the Far West NSW region there are a large percentage of households suffering because of high unemployment, substance abuse, violence and poor health. In some cases, dozens of not for profit and government organisations fly-in and fly-out of rural communities where there are only a few hundred residents. The cost is enormous and the positive impact is negligible.
With high speed broadband connectivity some of the people assisting these communities (and highlighted in various video clips, see the education section) believe there is a real opportunity to:
Remove the fly-in, fly-out (and drive-in, drive-out) mentality of support organisations. Designated social workers could live within these communities and be available to liaise with subject matter experts located elsewhere using video-conferencing and telehealth tools. The benefits to the households would include: o Having somebody living in the community permanently with whom they could build a level of trust. Many social workers would be more prepared to live in the community for a period of time if they could remain connected to the outside world via internet. This is perhaps one of the biggest benefits high speed broadband can bring to these communities
21 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
o A person who understands their culture. Often, experts who fly-in and fly-out and drive-in, drive-out of communities are insensitive to the culture and needs of the people whom they have been assigned to help. The professionals concerned are often not aware of the social norms of these communities o Moving beyond the 9 to 5 culture of support. Most support organisations deliver support during normal working hours. However most of the social issues that affect households occur afterhours or at weekends. Video-conferencing and use of web technology has the potential to provide 24/7 support. If the households in these communities have reliable, high speed broadband connectivity, support can be made available 24/7 either by accessing remote services via broadband or having physical access to a trusted person in the community who can assist immediately in case of an emergency
At present households in the region are generally under-skilled in their use of the internet. Government and education providers must increase the availability of internet related courses to prepare households for the digital economy in the Far West NSW region. While some education is available through the government senior's initiative and some courses are provided by Robinson College, which is based in Broken Hill, it is generally felt that more training is needed. Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Create a network of high Greater acceptance Local community Throughout To be determined speed broadband advocates – of technology will residents, non 2012 and but hoping to share “digital champions” who can facilitate the rate of profit beyond. and capitalise on share knowledge and shed change and ability to organisations, use of existing realistic light on the digital transition benefits RDA Far West knowledge and economy. A number of the smoothly into lives. NSW will help to equipment where residents who attended our facilitate. possible. briefings have agreed to participate. Develop a digital buddy Help to improve RDA Far West 2012 and Look to NSW and programme with the Young computer and NSW to facilitate Ongoing. Commonwealth Indigenous Leaders Group, technology literacy with Department Governments for whereby the young people in and awareness of Aboriginal programs and indigenous communities amongst Indigenous Affairs (NSW) and resources as agree to mentor and teach people Department of appropriate, the older generation about Families, Housing, philanthropists, the benefits of the internet. Community non profit groups. Services and Indigenous Affairs (Commonwealth) Create a digital buddy Help to improve A local IT 2012 and Local professionals program whereby IT computer and company, Ongoing professionals in the technology literacy Edgnett27, have community and web-savvy and awareness agreed to heading young professionals agree to amongst community up this initiative transfer their skills to a members in general. and to be household. facilitated by RDA Far West NSW. Develop a program where the Waste reduction is RDA Far West 2012 and Some external
27 www.edgnett.com.au
22 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011 community recycles PCs, promoted while NSW will seek to Ongoing support may be laptops smart phones and learning and growth find a non profit accessed through tablets. This means as evolves. The or other grant funds. businesses and higher income community members organisation to families upgrade devices their will help each other spearhead this older devices can be made through this change initiative. available to lower income process. households. Seek funding to enable low Access in many areas RDA Far West to 2012 and Work with external socio-economic households is not available due facilitate and Ongoing agencies to identify to get free or subsidised to cost, lack of involve local not funds (tailor-make internet access. Facilitate technology. for profit the program). development of a program to organisations, improve access to the potential central internet at low to no cost to access points. people in need. Continue rollout of the CLIP28 Help to break the Local service Testing Local providers. initiative and educate the cycle of FIFO/DIDO providers are underway in community on its use, to help help by helping our already doing this 2012 households better engage own. work. with government services. Increase promotion of Facilitate broad BHCC, training 2012 and BHCC Library and existing senior’s computer understanding of providers, and Ongoing staff, and will seek courses and “introduction to technology and its some facilitation to identify other the internet” courses. The Far uses; transition by RDA Far West locations and West NSW region has a high people into greater NSW. trainers. proportion of older residents use of technology in and this work is needed to ways that are deliberately engage them in relevant to them. new ways of engaging within Encourage a socially- the community. inclusive community.
THE DIGITAL DIVIDE The digital divide has been recognised around the world as a developing phenomenon of the digital economy. Unless the disadvantaged areas of society are included and provided for broadband can increase the gap between the rich and poor. The government rollout of the NBN directly talks about providing broadband access for every person in Australia. This is important as it will give the most remote people in the country equal access to: Healthcare Education Government services And an increasing number of business opportunities
The actions listed in the area for low socio-economic households as well as specific actions in other sections of the document will ensure this digital divide doesn’t develop in our area. There is more said about human equity issues in the health section. See the video clips from the Chair of the Far West Local Health District in particular.
28 CLIP stands for Centralised Local Information Portal – it is an initiative that has grown from the Schools Business Community Partnership Committee. It is a software development project, home-grown in Broken Hill and Far West NSW, for use amongst community agencies. It will enable improved coordination of resources between agencies (some of which are grant-funded projects servicing the Remote Service Delivery area in Wilcannia) and a search functionality to identify and locate services for specific needs.
23 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Local Government BROKEN HILL CITY COUNCIL29 Snap Send Solve, Neatstreets, Picture Adelaide Current State and Future Vision Consulting with the community online – the In developing this strategy, discussions took council has tried a solution called Bang the 30 place between RDA Far West NSW and the Table which has been successful. Other senior management team at the City of Broken more affordable online solutions are also Hill as well as the Mayor and some city available for smaller consultations councillors to identify critical elements of their Managing emergencies online using mediums vision for the digital economy in Broken Hill. such as Facebook and Twitter. Brisbane City Council used these tools effectively during The announcement of Broken Hill as an early the 2011 flood and cyclone emergencies; release site is critical to future endeavours of Collaborating internally using tools such as the council – it recently launched its new brand. Yammer31 This brand will be heavily promoted via the Engaging the community using blogs and internet and as such the online branding video initiatives can act as a flagship online project for Sourcing ideas from the community via the council. With a successful “relaunch” of the crowdsourcing – asking the community to brand in a high speed, reliable online submit and vote on ideas for improving their environment, the community will be more environment – see a recent example of this aware of the council’s website and online 32 in New York City services. This will assist with getting the Connecting online and offline services using community to engage with the council. QR33 codes At present, the council does very little with Engaging with residents via online library regard to e-Government owing to a lack of tools, for example www.mosmanreaders.net, sufficient knowledge amongst its employees, www.kingstonlibraries.net few appropriate technology-proficient staff and Promotion of council events using social lack of sufficient financial resources to acquire media, which Broken Hill City Council already some of the essential tools – many of which may uses for certain major events, for example have previously been beyond the reach of a Facebook is already used for the annual Civic smaller, inland city. However, given considerable Ball new developments and increased availability of The Broken Hill City Council is eager to promote more affordable technologies, many initiatives the roll out of the NBN, e-Government and the can now be vigorously pursued and digital economy in the city as indicated by our implemented at relatively low cost. Examples of interviews with both the councillors and the government using the internet effectively council management below. Most importantly, include: the council is providing strong leadership to the Providing online forms to streamline community through its promotion of initiatives processing of applications 30 Managing service requests online using web http://corporate.bangthetable.com/ 31 https://www.yammer.com/ and mobile applications – such as Ushahidi, 32 http://nyc.changeby.us/#start 33 QR means quick response. QR codes are like barcodes that can be scanned, for example with a smart phone, to 29 Broken Hill City Council is referenced as BHCC in many reveal a message, open a webpage, find contact details, sections of this strategy. and many other uses.
24 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011 such as the film studio and its rebranding of Higher engagement with the Broken Hill as well as its general support for the community through online consultation, broader development of the region. and the facilitation of feedback through social media and crowdsourcing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhW43A110SQ applications; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqexKJSmvBQ Better and quicker communication with the community; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9GzsmWLhAs Faster delivery of services to the Broken Hill City Council has also commenced community; using tools such as Facebook and Bang the Table Improved customer value for all to engage more effectively with the community stakeholders; with regard to its own services. This leadership Lower internal transaction costs drive will encourage other major stakeholders across efficiencies. the community to embrace the digital economy.
By 2020, the BHCC aspires to be recognised as a leading regional council in the delivery of government services via the internet. Key success factors:
Actions (To prepare for the NBN rollout)
The council has a commitment to carry out the following actions in the short term:
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Appoint a project officer to lead an Accelerate BHCC 31 March BHCC, other NBN rollout working group for BHCC engagement with NBN 2012 external operations. Co and prepare Broken support as Hill for high speed identified Develop the BHCC NBN project broadband. By 2020, it BHCC 31 March BHCC working group. is predicted that 4 in 2012 Speak with project managers at first every 5 Australians will BHCC 31 March BHCC release sites and get advice on how choose to engage with 2012 best to assist the NBN. government through Prepare a strategy for NBN funded the internet or other BHCC 31 March BHCC, seek education for broader community type of online 2012 training http://www.dbcde.gov.au/funding_an service34. funds d_programs .
34 One of the eight goals in the National Digital Economy Strategy – improved online government service delivery and engagement, http://www.nbn.gov.au/the-vision/digitaleconomystrategy/
25 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Actions (To develop e-services for customers, enhance online presence)
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Receive commitment from Community benefits. BHCC Advanced BHCC BHCC to prioritise e- National Digital Economy development Government initiatives. Strategy goals upheld. Appoint an NBN project BHCC 31 March BHCC working group. 2012 Research what other leading BHCC 31 March BHCC councils are doing. 2012 Pursue cost efficient video Provide for critical BHCC cooperate Urgent need BHCC, conferencing capabilities to communications and with existing as soon as subject to liaise with key State and crisis management facilities NBN rolled funding Commonwealth Government centre. Existing local out availability funders and agencies. facilities at TAFE, Develop an emergency Essential Energy or the management centre – install Department of Health video conferencing capacity are accessed but this is within BHCC premises. unacceptable in the longer term. Launch new Broken Hill brand There is an identified BHCC 30 June 2012 BHCC and including new website. need for single entry external portal for Broken Hill. funds Promote efficient methods Financially, councils in Future regional During 2012 Local for collaboration amongst our region struggle to organisation of councils, clusters of councils in the meet all costs. Improved councils. Division of region, e.g. sharing of collaboration enhances Local knowledge, plant, equipment, efficient outcomes. This Government. labour, facilities – to help meets goals in the NSW stimulate the region as a 2021 plan and RDA Far place to live and invest, help West NSW Regional population regenerate. Plan. Develop e-Government Current internet speeds BHCC Existing BHCC staff, initiatives to improve in BH highlight the software NBN local engagement with the current poor customer contains the government community. Initiatives to access experiences modules for grant – still include: prevalent in the region. many of these trying to Online payments (rates, Benefits will not be initiatives. understand development applications, realised until high speed Developing if BHCC may other fees and charges) broadband is available. the processes be amongst Online consultations (e.g. and internal top 40 sites. bang the table, others) capabilities is Reports from the general an ongoing public on roads, parks, process as footpaths, other facilities part of BHCC Promotion, information readiness for about major regional the NBN roll events like St Pats Races out. (e.g. Twitter, Facebook) Receipt of compliments and complaints online
26 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
CENTRAL DARLING SHIRE COUNCIL The technology solution proposed for the greater Far West NSW region is still unknown Current State and Future Vision but it is indicated on maps that satellite is In developing this part of the strategy, we currently proposed. Customers can expect to spoke with Tim Drew, the General Manager be able to connect to the NBN satellite by for the Central Darling Shire Council and the 2015. There are some life shifting changes Mayor, Cr Ray Longfellow. Tim and Ray are that will occur but at the same time, there is based in small, remote towns, Wilcannia and great need to stop the digital divide Ivanhoe, and know just how important phenomenon from evolving. telecommunications are in these relatively isolated communities. Actions (To prepare for the NBN roll out)
What do we want to do Link to the National Who will do When Resources Digital Economy it Strategy Work with BHCC to By 2020, it is predicted Councils in Far During 2013 Local councils, collaborate, share resources that 4 in every 5 West NSW Division of Local Australians will choose to Government engage with government through the internet or other type of online service35
Note: Actions identified elsewhere in this strategy will equally apply to Central Darling Shire wherever possible.
Wilcannia Post Office White Cliffs store Recreation on Lake Pamamaroo, 2011
35 One of the eight goals in the National Digital Economy Strategy – improved online government service delivery and engagement, http://www.nbn.gov.au/the-vision/digitaleconomystrategy/
27 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
THE UNINCORPORATED AREA OF FAR WEST NSW the premises in Broken Hill and satellite elsewhere in the region. There is also The Far West NSW Unincorporated Area, uncertainty about whether or not a fixed including Village Committees in the townships wireless service will be made available of Tibooburra and Silverton. through the NBN project. Current State and Future Vision
In developing this part of the strategy, we combine the umbrella ideas and objectives of the region and try to make sense of what high speed broadband will mean across our vast Tibooburra, NSW landscape, given the likely mix of fibre optic to
Actions
We extend an invitation to the people in the Unincorporated Area of NSW to have a direct say on actions.
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Work with identified partners By 2020, it is predicted that Councils in Far During Local councils, to collaborate, share 4 in every 5 Australians will West NSW 2013 Division of resources choose to engage with Local government through the Government, internet or other type of online service36 Facilitate access to Tourism is amongst the RDA Far West 2012 and RDA Far West information about tourism, largest contributors to the NSW will work Ongoing NSW to events and regional initiatives economy in many parts of with village provide in Tibooburra, White Cliffs, Far West NSW. Tourists committees, information Milparinka and Silverton. increasingly search for councils, tourism about grant information about their organisations to funds as it travel plans online, well develop online becomes before arriving at the information. available. destination. Facilitate development of Hundreds of construction RDA Far West 2012 RDA Far West digital engagement personnel will be involved in NSW will liaise NSW, possibilities in Silverton to the project. Many will with the Silverton Silverton benefit construction of the demand access to keep in Village Village wind farm, ongoing tourism touch with family. Committee to Committee, needs. identify any others, may opportunity to seek external provide public funds or other access to the support. internet.
Note: Actions identified elsewhere in this strategy will equally apply to the Unincorporated Area of NSW wherever possible.
36 One of the eight goals in the National Digital Economy Strategy – improved online government service delivery and engagement, http://www.nbn.gov.au/the-vision/digitaleconomystrategy/
28 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Health and Aged Care management of health information has the potential to transform the way health is Current State and Future Vision delivered now, by improving the quality and safety of our healthcare system. It’s been As the ehealthinfo.gov.au website highlights, estimated by Deloitte Consulting37 that for Australia is not alone among OECD countries every dollar invested in eHealth in Australia, in projecting unsustainable growth in we’ll see more than two dollars back. expenditure on health services. As such, it is essential to find ways to increase efficiencies To maintain the region’s position of being at in the healthcare system, to reduce costs the forefront of the delivery of health services without compromising on the quality of the to regional communities and to continue to services delivered. improve the healthcare services being provided to everyone in the Far West NSW Like many other sectors, the health sector in region. the region is frustrated by the current telecommunications infrastructure in the Far Notwithstanding the current frustrations, the West NSW region. For example, this is Far West NSW region has a real opportunity encapsulated by the Dentist’s clinic which to become a leader in e-Health by building on when constructed 10 years ago was fully the skills, expertise, processes and fitted out and networked for fibre optic cable. infrastructure already being put in place by The dentist’s current ISP provides a service some of the leading health providers in the which is little better than dial-up and there is region, namely: no alternative service available to the dentist. The NSW Health and its telehealth and e- Across the Far West NSW region, the lack of Medical records program adequate technology capacity and speed is The Royal Flying Doctor Service and its holding our region back. In this video below, skills, traditions and culture of innovation the Chair of the Far West Local Health District and adoption of the latest technologies board explains the general aspirations of the The Broken Hill University Department of regional health services, and highlights how Rural Health (BHUDRH) and its community attainment of health standards are being of care program impeded by declining technology services: Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPz28Yw7W1A Health and Education Equity We visited an aged care facility in Broken Hill Technology should prevent development of which does not currently offer internet the urban/rural health divide. In the following connectivity to individual residents due to video, hear about health equity. Australia, as infrastructure service constraints. In the next a nation, strives to provide the same quality video, you can gain a sense of how quality of health care in the rural and remote locations life for our older residents is impacted by lack as is provided in well populated metropolitan of technology services: areas. Technology is the critical enabler for http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nunq7cXu1l8 the prevention of an urban/rural health divide. Listen to Dr Steve Flecknoe-Brown talk High speed broadband will enable the delivery of electronic services to improve upon 37 Deloitte Consulting, report for the Australian Health existing paper-based systems. The electronic Ministers’ Conference, 2008
29 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011 about health equity for the Far West NSW NSW Health has been trialling telehealth region: services in the region for some time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxsRek-8MDg NSW Health has begun trialling telehealth videoconferencing services into regional Professional Development areas. The benefits to date include Evidence shows that students learn more Consultations being delivered via video- effectively in the training programs offered by conferencing the BHUDRH. They have more impressive Specialists that were previously results, and they are more likely to want to inaccessible are now available to the rural work in remote and rural locations. community Interactions are real, practical and create Broadens clinical options access to the long-lasting learning experiences. But without rural public high speed broadband, there are ongoing Rural patients have taken to the frustrations. Listen to the story behind the technology very quickly. They see professional development of more than 400 immediate benefits such as quick access to students per year, the future doctors and specialists (rather than having to wait other medical professionals, who come to our months for a consultation) and not having region for this specialist practical learning: to travel many hours to larger towns for http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00fCM6veKp0 consultations e-Medical Records Lack of bandwidth means the services can only be rolled out to a small number of rural NSW Health has been rolling out an e-Medical townships at the moment. The NBN will allow record system in select regional areas over telehealth for all. the past two years. Broken Hill is one of the areas where the pilot has been conducted. Broken Hill University Department of Rural Doctors, nurses and health staff in Broken Hill Health (BHUDRH) are already involved in the pilot (along with four other sites) and are building and testing a This campus was established to improve system suited to rural needs. health care in far western NSW by providing high quality support, education and training The benefits of the e-Medical records include: for rural and remote health workers.
fast access to patient information for Its focus is to establish relevant teaching and clinicians support environments, promote opportunities reduction in paperwork which allow nurses for student placements in the region, and doctors to have more time with patients encourage experienced academic staff to alert notification of patient issues spend time in the bush and foster fewer errors due to issues such as illegible partnerships to improve the quality of health handwriting care for rural Australians. prompting for safer care – ie if the clinician forgets to perform a certain procedure BHUDRH has works closely with the Far West better coordination of resources such as Local Health District, Maari Ma Health operating theatre time Aboriginal Corporation, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (South Eastern Section) and Telehealth Services
30 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Divisions of General Practice to deliver a Hands on experience for students successful rural attachment program for Unlike in the city they get to see patients medical, nursing and allied health students. It first hand – they are not at the back of the also provides comprehensive training for queue to see patients as often happens in the larger cities Indigenous health workers, research training Often they get to treat patients on their for general practitioners and primary health own care workers, and professional development This hands-on experience means the support for local health professionals. students become better doctors and medical professionals More recently BHUDRH joined forces with the Students contribute to the economy by Population Health Division of the Far West spending money in the region (estimated Local Health District to operate the Broken Hill at $10m per annum in Broken Hill) Centre for Remote Health Research. The Students contribute their expertise to the centre aims to enhance national expertise in community rural and remote health research and High-speed broadband will enable: translate research into policy and practice.
The initiative is seen as world’s best practice More efficient delivery of the service Improved collaboration with participating in clinical education and the University has universities delivered papers around the world on its Improved connectedness with the outside effectiveness. world – ability to access world’s best practice lectures and webinars The program has been a great success and has Ability to deliver webinars on areas of rural the potential to rejuvenate the health sector expertise (such as aboriginal cultural in rural communities. As then Prime Minister, awareness training) Kevin Rudd stated on a visit to Broken Hill in Talk to people in real time in rural March 2010 to announce $1.9 million funding communities for the initiative: The Rural Health Campus initiative has been “These funds will help ensure that students so successful that the region is now looking to undertaking rural training have access to take the medical model and move it to other top quality facilities and encourage them sectors such as law, business, engineering and to consider future careers in rural health. design. See education sector. Doctors and health professionals who spend time training and learning in Royal Flying Doctor Service regional and rural centres often establishes Australia has long been at the forefront of the strong links with the local community.” delivery of health to regional communities ever since the days of the Rev John Flynn in The Rural Health Campus is considered the 1920s. He saw firsthand the health world’s best practice and the academics running the course have collected evidence concerns of communities living in remote and presented papers internationally on the areas where two doctors provided the only campus. medical care for an area of almost 2 million square kilometres. His vision was to provide a ‘mantle of safety’ for these people and on 15 May 1928, his dream had become a reality Some of the key benefits are: with the opening of the Australian Inland
31 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Mission Aerial Medical Service (later renamed the use of flight and other transport means the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS)). While the utilisation of telephone and radio the RFDS began in Cloncurry, Queensland its NSW section has operated since 1936 when it In recent times it has embraced satellite and opened its Broken Hill base. In the 1950s, the web based communication technologies both RFDS was acknowledged by former Prime of which will improve with the advent of the Minister Sir Robert Menzies as “perhaps the NBN. This successful track record in adopting single greatest contribution to the effective technology and the culture of embracing settlement of the far distant country that we technology to solve real health issues is a key have witnessed in our time.” Today, it has a strength. The Far West region can harness fleet of 53 aircraft, 21 bases around Australia this strength as it enters the digital economy and looks after over 270,000 patients. age to provide better health services to all its residents. The RFDS has always applied the latest technology to deliver health services to the http://youtu.be/PDRmSo7bDUo challenging environment of remote Australia.
It has a track record of overcoming the tyranny of distance and the barriers of communication. The organisation has successfully utilised technology in the past including:
Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Health Equity Health indicators Far West Local Ongoing Govt funds. The key aspiration of the Far West NSW deteriorate the further Health District Donations health sector is to provide similar health distance you are from cities, BHUDRH, Maari and grants. services to the people in our region as are e.g. 20 years shorter life for Ma, Royal Flying provided to people in large city an Indigenous person and Doctor, the environments. The only way to achieve 10 years shorter life for non region’s this is by having clever use of e-diagnostic Indigenous; death rates for Medicare Local, and clinical services. Without technology cancer are higher. The local medical enablers, the urban/rural divide will digital divide is increasingly practices and continue to worsen. manifested in Australia health care through such trends. specialists Health System Management Road travel is dangerous for All the key Urgently Govt funds. (a) Telehealth patients and health medical awaiting Far West Continue to roll out health services professionals alike. Air professionals in high speed Local Health to Broken Hill and our Far West NSW travel is largely out of reach the region have broadband District rural communities. Contrary to for many, or not available. It a part to play, would like to opinion, patients don’t mind makes sense to let see above. be a trial site telehealth video. But high definition technology offer for national services are key to having an convenient, efficient health e- effective consultation between services. Current medical doctor and patient. impediments are poor records. (b) e-Medical Records quality picture and Continue to improve data unreliable data management, data sharing, security, transmission. Data
32 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
storage, access, integration with management efficiencies related services. can increase exponentially over a large geographic area. Professional Development Education levels and good All the key Urgently BHUDRH, Continue to refine the rural health campus health increase. Community medical awaiting FWLHD initiative and promote its benefits to the learns and grows. Better professionals in high speed Students world. Broken Hill is transitioning from its educated people take better the region have broadband from past as a working class town to a vibrant, care of themselves. Lifestyle a part to play, to provide universities. innovative university town. In this new expectations change. People see above. improved Various future, people relate to each other are driven by learning, Various services grants. differently. A successful transition is the professional clusters, national, for Federal key to our future economic development networks, ability to access international students, funds. (reference sites are the former quality lifestyles, partnerships local predominantly steel cities of Newcastle, information and and profession Wollongong). recreational activities. arrangements als (a) Students bring diversity to rural Technology and face to face enabled with communities and offer intellect, interactions are critical. high speed and vibrancy and innovation. The economic impacts broadband. (a) e-Learning blend attributed to current Medicare Local Mix up learning methods, e.g. student learning activities in has prioritised interactions with local mentors, Far West NSW are the setup of businesses, video, other estimated at $10m per year. education students. programs in next 12 months.
Seeking healthier communities, as in Broken Hill (above) and Menindee (left)
33 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Education A well-known worldwide example of how education is changing and how (free) Current State and Future Vision education is being delivered over the internet is www.khanacademy.com . This service Every student in the Far West Region will have originally began when Salman Khan began high-speed broadband access both in the tutoring his nephews online. His maths home and in the classroom and the requisite tutorials were delivered via the internet. Khan skills and understanding to access online decided to record the sessions and make education. Education providers will have the them available online (via Youtube). He soon ability to provide specialised web based realised that his nephews preferred the training from the region to the world. The recorded tutorials, opening his eyes to the Broken Hill University Department of Rural power of online education. The service has Health’s community campus model will be grown from those beginning and having rolled out to different disciplines such as received funding from the Bill Gates has business and law and attract many more grown to now include over 2600 online students to Broken Hill and the Far West tutorials and virtual classroom software that Region. It will be widely recognised as a world anyone can access anywhere. class education methodology.
Khan Academy illustrates the kind of services The internet has already transformed how we that will be available to students allowing learn. Google's mission “to organise the them access to extensive video libraries, world's information and make it universally practice exercises, and assessments from any accessible and useful” seemed unattainable computer with access to the web. In addition less than two decades ago. It has been to regular classroom education, students will delivering on that mission more effectively have access to these types of tools that are: with each passing year and we now have customised self-paced learning tools access to more information than we could dynamic systems that allow students to ever have imagined 20 years ago. This access confidently seek help (unlike asking for to information has fundamentally changed extra help in a classroom environment) the way we learn and seek knowledge. In the future parents, teachers and tutors can Increasingly, video and interactive content is expect to have full visibility into what their where the best information is available to students are learning and doing. A teacher will students and researchers. Access to this have: information requires broadband speeds. The the ability to see any students progress in disadvantages to those without access to high detail speed broadband are increasing with each real-time class report for all students passing year. Education will be increasingly better intelligence for doing targeted delivered via the internet. While all schools in interventions to assist those students with Australia will have access to broadband difficulties internet, it is equally important that high speed internet is available in the home, so Parents, students and educators who aren’t that students can take advantage of online aware of online education initiatives or don’t learning tools in their home environment. have the skills to access these initiatives will be at a huge educational disadvantage.
34 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
The Far West NSW region must ensure that innovative solutions to barriers and challenges access and education is available for every that are presented. In the following videos, student, parent and educator, both in the local training managers and mentors highlight classroom and at home. See a recent issues of relevance in providing education Economist article “ Flipping the Classroom: services over such large geographic areas, and Hopes that the internet can improve teaching discuss why participation in education by may at last be bearing fruit”38 young people is essential, given the empowering features of knowledge and the In the Far West NSW region education significant contribution an education can providers are doing some interesting work. contribute in order to avoid creating a digital We spoke to secondary and tertiary education divide in our region. providers in compiling information for this report. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TynuQ2T8n4
Broken Hill University Department of Rural Robinson College Health Robinson College is a not-for-profit As discussed in the health section of this community organisation that is funded by the report, the Broken Hill University Department NSW Department of Education and Training to of Rural Health campus has experienced deliver Vocational Education and Training major successes in providing practical training programs in Broken Hill, Menindee, Wilcannia for health clinicians. The aim is to now and Far Western NSW. The college provides transfer this learning framework to other funded opportunities for people to gain disciplines such as business, law, and vocational skills in a variety of industries. See engineering. The search for funding is the manager in the following video discuss the currently underway with the objective being current programs offered in the Far West to fund the expansion of the campus program NSW region: to these new disciplines. Hear about the plans from Associate Professor David Perkins: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OmL8HtCz9w
Robinson College recognises that high speed http://youtu.be/uksUvuLzjqA broadband will assist with: TAFE Western Institute & Robinson College Flexibility in learning, access to learning. New courses are planned for Far West NSW An increased number of courses can be students in the future. There is an ongoing offered and web-based e-learning need to increase participation in education by capabilities, currently restricted due to rural and remote students as they can gain poor bandwidth, will improve. new access to technology. TAFE also plans to Simple management of web resources will continue its use of social media to improve. Due to poor speeds, simple tasks communicate with students and to continue like updating the web site, is inefficient. to engage with other new technologies as Offer courses worldwide. The college they become available. TAFE is also a key offers course in “Land Management” partner in the community helping to drive specific to arid regions. With global warming arid regions are increasing and 38 http://www.economist.com/node/21529062 the skills and knowledge of the Far West
35 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
NSW region will increasingly be in demand worldwide. This expertise and knowledge can be shared via online education and elearning. Likewise, mining-specific courses could be delivered online.
Right, inside the dining carriage at Menindee Central School’s innovative Enterprise Park Project – teaching tourism, hospitality and other skills
Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Encourage our education service Develop a robust Our local 2012 Grant funding providers to pursue funds under the education funding education opportunities DEEWR Education Investment Fund strategy for the region. service as they present (EIF)39 – Regional Priorities Round. There is a lot of providers National VET E-learning Strategy40 education funding being Possible Digital hubs and digital made available through enterprise funding through the federal and state Department of Broadband41 (at initiatives including present this is only available to the first 40 regions but may be extended). Have a standardised approach to A documented process RDA Far West 2012 RDA Far West attracting university students to the for attracting universities NSW will NSW, BHCC, region. At present no single register of to send students to the communicate BHUDRH, all the universities sending students to region will assist in with universities others Broken Hill exists. The BHUDRH systematically increasing to identify initiative is one of the most well the number of students current formal known and accessed university spending time in Broken and informal programs in the area. Many others Hill and Far West NSW. programs in the have not been documented. The social and region. professional exchanges are of great benefit to all parties. Develop a clear process in the region The region is not getting RDA Far West 2012 RDA Far West for applying for the funding the educational funding NSW NSW mentioned above. it currently needs Local providers to continue and These are areas where Robinson 2012 Robinson increase its provision of niche and the region has unique College, TAFE, and College, TAFE specialised education in mining, land and specialised expertise BHUDRH beyond management in arid regions and that can be exported indigenous Australian art and culture around the world
39 http://www.deewr.gov.au/HigherEducation/Programs/EIF/Pages/EIFRegPrioRound.aspx 40 http://www.flexiblelearning.net.au/ 41 http://www.dbcde.gov.au/funding_and_programs
36 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
learning on land management in arid regions Environment from Broken Hill. Robinson College already delivers this learning in classroom format. Current State and Future Vision Similarly Smart Farm technology which is The region will reduce energy use through the currently being trialled in Armidale, NSW, will use of smart technology devices to become be rolled out to farms in the coming years. more environmentally friendly. We will use This will improve efficiencies across all farms, technology to share environmentally friendly ensuring the best use of natural resources. farming practices that ensure we protect our While these advances will not be unique to land. the Far West region they will ensure the Far West farms of the future continue to engage While the focus of this document is not on practices that benefit the environment. environmental benefits, we believe that more environmentally friendly practices will be a by Protection of the environment also ties in product of the enactment of this digital with the broader tourism objectives of the economy strategy. region. A current proposal exists to nominate a part of the Menindee Lakes area as a With a warming planet, developing Ramsar site. If this listing is received, the sustainable farming in arid regions will internet will be a key tool in promoting the become ever more important around the lakes as a large tourist attraction. Please read world. Far West NSW has developed expertise the “Menindee Lakes Economic Assessment in land management in an extremely harsh Benefit Report March 2011” at climate over many decades. This knowledge is http://www.rdafarwestnsw.org.au/default.as becoming increasingly valuable to p?PageID=WhatsNew . governments and farmers overseas and as such an opportunity exists to deliver e-
The many facets of environmental issues in Far West NSW, left to right, top, fishing at Main Weir Menindee, Darling River in flood, wide open spaces on road to Tibooburra, left to right, bottom, spoonbill on Lake Wetherell, and irrigation at Menindee Lakes and in Menindee township
37 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Use the internet to assist with To promote and protect RDA Far West During 2013 Internal and getting Ramsar listing for the the unique environment NSW continues to also not for Menindee Lakes – a strategy in the area. Also, the work with State profit could be developed that is new business and and Federal organisations in web-based and provides employment Governments on the region, out video footage similar to this opportunities for this initiative of region. report. Menindee. Set-up webcams that Assist with marketing RDA Far West During 2012 We will seek showcase some of the and promotion for local NSW will attempt assistance of region’s beautiful natural businesses. to acquire technology attractions to the world. equipment and specialists find locations with adequate connectivity Contact CSIRO to find out Share knowledge with RDA Far West During 2012 Internal how Smart Farm technology local horticulturalists. NSW can be utilised in the region.
Water for everyone from use of smart technology... Menindee Lakes birdlife, left, attracts tourism dollars, and cotton crops grown by Tandou Ltd, right, engage some water-saving subsurface irrigation technology.
38 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Next Steps
With the advent of high speed broadband, RDA Far West NSW and Broken Hill City Council foresee a bright future for our communities with thriving industry sectors in creative services, mining and education. Our households in towns and in the most rural areas will be engaged and the people in our region will have access to the best health and education services available.
We believe this region should be prioritised due to our current lack of infrastructure and also due to our community’s readiness to adopt high speed broadband technology.
We recognise that we as a community need to prepare for the digital future. Therefore, as the reader will have observed, each section in this document lists actions for implementation. During the consultation process until 31 March 2012, we are strongly encouraging the community to give us feedback and to send us any ideas they may have. The best ideas will be listed as action items in the final version of this report.
To conclude this report we have listed below the actions we feel are most important. These are the actions the RDA Far West NSW and key local stakeholders believe must be undertaken as a priority:
Actions
What do we want to do Why Who will do it When Resources Appoint a project officer to Accelerate engagement BHCC 31 March BHCC, other lead an NBN rollout working with NBN Co and prepare 2012 external group for BHCC operations. Broken Hill for high speed support as broadband. identified Develop the Film Studio as a This will show the BHCC, RDA Far July 2012 Funding will be high speed broadband test site potential of the internet West NSW actively sought and kick-start the development of the film precinct Engage the community in the Community engagement RDA Far West December Internal (wide development of the digital in the process will ensure NSW 2012 use of free economy process and seek we develop a strategy that marketing input into the consultation reflects our entire resources) process through a coordinated community marketing campaign. Have a standardised approach A documented process for RDA Far West 2012 RDA Far West to attracting university attracting universities to NSW will NSW, BHCC, students to the region. At send students to the communicate BHUDRH, present no single register of all region will assist in with universities others the universities sending systematically increasing to identify students to Broken Hill exists. the number of students current formal The BHUDRH initiative is one of spending time in Broken and informal the most well known and Hill and Far West NSW. programs in the accessed university programs The social and region. in the area. Many others have professional exchanges not been documented. are of great benefit to all parties.
39 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
Your Input
How can you help? If you strongly believe the region needs high speed broadband (and you are interested in using the services as soon as they become available), please show your support by adding your name and comments at the bottom of this page at www.digitalfarwestnsw.com.au . Please tell others in the community to do the same, via Facebook, Twitter, telephone email or simple word of mouth. Forward content from this strategy to Canberra, NBN Co and your local MP, telling them why the Far West NSW region needs high speed broadband.
If you would like to add to any particular section of the report you can add your comments by:
using the comments section at the bottom of each section on www.digitalfarwestnsw.com.au emailing us at [email protected] mailing us at RDA Far West NSW, PO Box 1010, Broken Hill, NSW, 2880 or calling us on (08) 8087 8383
In the meantime, this strategy will be reviewed and adapted as necessary for changing priorities. The RDA Far West NSW and all our stakeholders in the community are excited about the opportunities that high speed broadband access presents, and look forward to preparing for the implementation of the actions and initiatives listed in the report.
Thank you for taking the time to read this document and we look forward to your input in the coming months.
Contributors to this strategy:
We would like to thank every person who has so far contributed to this strategy so far, including:
Steve Baker Cr Dave Gallagher Margot Muscat Pam Clarke Cr John Groenendijk Linda Nadge Sharyn Cowie John Hart Gary Oldman Cr Wincen Cuy Matt Haynes Peter Oldsen Paul DeLisio Heidi Henry David Perkins Scott Dennis Tegan Hinchey Bill Riley Paula Doran Jason King Lyndall Roberts Collin Doyle Geoff Looney Paul Seager Tim Drew Chris Mann Paul Smith Lance Duggan Steve McDermott Bruce Tindale Robin Edgecumbe Steve Miller Gerald Vandenheuval Steve Flecknoe-Brown Ken Mills Frank Zaknich Frankie Mills
This is a living document. Ongoing strategy presentations and further community input will take place during 2012. Public consultations will occur in the period until 31 March 2012. Posters, advertisements, our website and our e-Newsletter will advise locations and times.
40 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
APPENDIX
The digital economy strategy must both reflect and schools in each of the outlying centres enable the overall regional development plan. As access government programs to address such, key parts of the Far West NSW Regional specific issues. There is opportunity for tertiary education to broaden. Development plan 2010-2011 report are restated The climate and environment are here as a reference: conducive to the region’s developing tourism and creative industries. Extensive About Far West NSW conservation occurs through a series of The Far West is the most sparsely national parks and the region is conducive populated region in New South Wales, to renewable energy projects. accounting for 18.4% of the land mass, but Known mineral resources retain mining as only 0.4% of the population. Almost nine in a key employer and the region is also every ten people (86%) live in the city of considered highly prospective, with a Broken Hill, with the remainder living number of smaller projects in various mostly in the Central Darling Shire towns stages of development. However, the of Wilcannia, Menindee, White Cliffs, Tilpa, traditional mining/pastoral dependence is and Ivanhoe; or Tibooburra in the moving through a diversification process. surrounding Unincorporated Area. Alongside tourism, there are emerging Dramatic population declines over the past industries in goat and meat sheep four decades have been directly linked to a production and horticulture is diversifying significantly restructured mining industry. into cotton, malting grains, grapes and In recent times this decline has stabilised stone fruits. and as this report will show there is Education is a significant employer in each potential for growth. of the three main population centres Broken Hill and Menindee have an older alongside healthcare and social assistance, demographic than NSW, while Wilcannia’s while retail is the largest employment younger demographic is linked to a high sector in Broken Hill. Indigenous population with associated There are a number of major projects in shortened life expectancies. various stages of development, including Individual and family incomes are well non-mining infrastructure such as a wind below the national average – with farm, trade centre, events centre, film Wilcannia’s almost half the national studio, aquatic centre, stormwater average detention, water supply and heritage Unemployment is about double the conservation – in addition to school national average in Wilcannia and Broken infrastructure and a sustained interest in Hill, and three times the national average developing resort accommodation. in Menindee. As a backdrop to creating a digital The region is well served by transport economy strategy and realising the key infrastructure and water. regional goals in the next sector it should With regard to health, Broken Hill has a be acknowledged that the Far West range of primary health care services and Region, including large sections of Broken an 88-bed hospital supported by visiting Hill has some of the worst internet access surgeons and specialists, while Central in Australia. Many of the business owners Darling Shire relies on a combination of and residents, whom we interviewed limited on-site resources supported by the separately for this document, reported Royal Flying Doctor Service and outreach that their service has steadily worsened in services from Broken Hill and Dubbo. the past 3 years. It appears that the Broken Hill has two secondary schools and current main ISP in the area provides seven primary schools, while ‘combined’ minimal support when internet services
41 Far West NSW and Broken Hill Digitatl Economy Strategy – Draft for Consultation 16 December 2011
fail and has no plans to improve or Develop creative industries upgrade its services in the future. In short Rationale: A two-tiered approach to the current infrastructure in place is in a creative industries is required: (1) support state of disrepair and services are over- to encourage the growth and sustainability subscribed leading to abysmal of participants in existing creative performance. This is severely curtailing industries such as art, tourism and film, efforts to attain the goals in the next and (2) attraction and development of section. ‘new’ creative industries with an emphasis on technological advancements. Key Regional Goals Improve the quality of life Rationale: A greater balance of service Broaden the economic base delivery is required across the region to Rationale: Retention of existing industry address issues identified in unemployment and jobs is vital – but new investment will data, demographics and social profile data stimulate better use of under-used – acknowledging that addressing these resources; a more stable workforce; issues will have a positive impact on other broadening of the skills base; improved regional issues and challenges. local goods and services; more sustainable Engage the community community facilities; and the achievement Rationale: A socially inclusive region will of other economic, environmental and seek to reduce disadvantage and increase social objectives. participation in jobs, education, training Strengthen the infrastructure capacity and community activities. To achieve this, Rationale: Although the region has key knowledge and information needs to be infrastructure in place, strengthening shared – and partnerships developed – so regional capacity to manage resources all sections of the community are engaged such as water and tapping into relatively in the process. new industries such as renewable energy and communication technology will enable the region to move forward – economically, socially and environmentally.
Sunset over Menindee Lakes
42