In 2010, Smithton, in the Circular Head Region of Tasmania, was chosen as one of the first places in Australia to be connected to the National Broadband Network [NBN]. Unfortunately, it's taken the Polytechnic, or rather the Department of Education, almost two years to get the regional Polytechnic Campus situated here connected. The Polytechnic is so underutilised here it terms of the potentiality to grow digital citizenship in this community through education. We are in a unique position to serve as model for other regional areas nationwide, as we have teachers in this area servicing not just the local community, but the rest of the state in online VET delivery. NBN removes geographical disadvantage, yet in terms of support for this area we are still constantly dismissed due to our geographical location. How can we expect our own community to get behind us and support us if our own organisation and political parties don’t recognise our value? Through education we can mentor and encourage the community to integrate ICT and weave technology into the fabric of daily living. We can grow community capacity, and develop the knowledge and skill base required to take full advantage of available technologies, such as the NBN, to drive change and renewal. By increasing awareness and promoting ICT we can unlock possibilities to stimulate development of community enterprises and niche projects, empower people through access to online services, and increase potential for new ways of ‘doing’ in employment. We’re passionate and driven… we just need some wings!
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