Up to $22,000,000 to improve First Nations digital inclusion with culturally safe advice on telecommunications, online safety, service access, and connectivity troubleshooting for remote communities.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors?
The Australian Government is investing in two key initiatives to improve the digital ability and literacy of First Nations Australians:
First Nations Digital Support Hub Program
- Aimed at boosting digital ability and connectivity literacy among First Nations people by offering culturally safe, telephone and online support.
- Provides an online resource hub, training modules, and a call centre staffed by First Nations advisors to help with everything from understanding internet plans to online safety.
Network of Digital Mentors Program
- Designed to train and employ digital mentors in remote First Nations communities.
- Mentors help community members access affordable telecommunications options, develop digital skills, and stay safe online.
Together, these two programs (totalling AUD 22 million across multiple years) are part of the Australian Government’s commitment to meeting the Closing the Gap Target 17—achieving equal levels of digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by 2026.
First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors level of support
Total Funding Available:
- Up to AUD 4 million (GST exclusive) over two years for the First Nations Digital Support Hub Program.
- Up to AUD 18 million (GST exclusive) over three years for the Network of Digital Mentors Program.
Minimum and Maximum Amount of Funding
- There is no minimum grant amount that you can apply for.
- The maximum for the First Nations Digital Support Hub is AUD 4 million in total over two years.
- The maximum for the Network of Digital Mentors is AUD 18 million in total over three years.
Co-contribution Requirements
- There is no formal co-contribution requirement. However, any costs beyond the maximum grant amount or any ineligible costs must be met by the grantee.
First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors important dates
- This program is currently closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors objectives
First Nations Digital Support Hub Program
- Provide a culturally safe website and call centre where First Nations people can get advice on internet plans, online safety, and troubleshooting connectivity issues.
- Develop training materials and resources (including in First Nations languages where possible) to support call centre staff and digital mentors.
Network of Digital Mentors Program
- Recruit, train, and employ two digital mentors (of different genders) per remote community to build local digital skills.
- Enable community members to learn how to use online government services (e.g., myGov, Digital ID) and address online risks such as scams.
- Develop a National Catalogue of Digital Training Options, so mentors and communities can choose programs suited to local needs.
Both programs work in tandem, ensuring that nationwide advice (through the Hub) is complemented by local, on-the-ground training (through the Mentors).
Projects and expenditure eligible for First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors support
Eligible Activities (Digital Support Hub)
- Creating an online platform with culturally safe information and telephone/email assistance.
- Employing First Nations staff for a support line to help with issues such as technology choices, internet troubleshooting, and safety.
- Developing and maintaining training materials for staff and local mentors.
Eligible Activities (Network of Digital Mentors)
- Identifying suitable remote First Nations communities that already have affordable connectivity.
- Recruiting up to two local First Nations mentors per remote community, ensuring they have (or can obtain) required background checks.
- Training mentors to deliver digital literacy workshops, identify and combat scams, and help locals navigate online platforms such as myGov.
Ineligible Expenditure
As per the program guidelines, funding cannot be used for:
- Purchase of land or major capital works.
- Covering ongoing operational costs like rent, utility bills, or general administration overheads.
- Overseas travel or retrospective expenses.
- Any activities for which local, state, or other Commonwealth agencies are primarily responsible.
See the guidelines for full details of projects and expenditure eligible for funding.
Other First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors support
Only the following organisations have been specifically invited to apply:
- First Nations Media Australia
- Indigenous Technology
- Land on Heart
- Pilbara and Kimberley Aboriginal Media
- The Centre for Appropriate Technology
Consortia are allowed, but the lead organisation must be one of those five. Partners must provide letters of support outlining their role and expertise.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors assessment criteria
Both programs use six equally weighted criteria (10 points each, totalling 60 points). While there are no formal percentage weightings per criterion, each must be addressed thoroughly:
1. Proven Ability to Deliver (10 points)
- Demonstrate track record delivering cultural, digital, or training projects for First Nations communities.
- Outline project governance, risk management, and resource capacity.
2. Identification and Prioritisation (10 points)
- (Digital Support Hub) Show how you will develop and maintain relevant materials.
- (Network of Digital Mentors) Explain how you will select communities and confirm they have suitable connectivity.
3. Collaboration (10 points)
- Show how you will partner with each other (Hub ↔ Mentors) and with other stakeholders to ensure culturally appropriate, comprehensive support.
4. Selection of Key Staff (10 points)
- (Hub) Indicate how you will recruit at least four First Nations call centre staff.
- (Mentors) Indicate how you will recruit mentors in each community and ensure they meet safety checks.
5. Engaging and Leveraging Other Stakeholders (10 points)
- Demonstrate how you will work alongside other related programs, possibly including any co-funding from industry or government.
6. Program Costs (10 points)
- Provide a budget and highlight efficiency or co-contributions.
- Demonstrate how you will manage any costs beyond the grant funding.
How do I get the First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Demonstrate a strong alignment with the fund’s objectives.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors application
Applicants should gather and develop:
- A detailed project plan (showing major milestones, risk management, and timelines).
- An indicative budget (clearly explaining how grant funds will be spent, plus any possible co-funding).
- Proof of financial viability (e.g., statements, loan agreements).
- Letters of support from your board or community stakeholders.
- Consortium letters of support (if applicable).
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors
Applications are submitted to FirstNationsDigitalInclusion@infrastructure.gov.au.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
First Nations Digital Support Hub and Network of Digital Mentors resources
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