The digital age is upon us and the Mid West needs to maximise its potential through a targeted partnership approach with communities, all levels of government, public, private and non-government sectors in order to develop a digital economy. A focus on digital literacy and optimising the use of available infrastructure and services will help connect Mid West communities and ensure they are digitally enabled.
Communications infrastructure will largely underpin the development of many proposed major projects in the region, all of which require varying levels of advanced telecommunications systems. Enhancing telecommunications infrastructure is necessary to achieve equity of provision in the region and help position Mid West business / industry on the global stage.
A thriving digital economy would give the Mid West powerful new tools to build a competitive and inclusive region with even greater productivity and innovation. It would also provide communities with access to new jobs, training and economic opportunities.
This chapter identifies the Blueprint's key Digital and Communications focus and priorities.