That ICPA (Aust) advocates to the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders for the urgent reinstatement of funding for the Regional Tech Hub (RTH).
The federal government’s failure to allocate funding in the recent 2026–27 Federal Budget for the continued operation of the Regional Tech Hub demonstrates a deep disregard for the telecommunications needs of those living, working and accessing education in rural and remote Australia.
Since its establishment six years ago, the Regional Tech Hub has provided assistance, resources, support and workshops to thousands of rural and remote customers. This support has made a substantial difference to education access for many students and schools.
Alarmingly, this funding cut comes at a time when the need for the Regional Tech Hub services has never been greater as the High-Capacity Radio Concentrator (HCRC) systems are phased out. Rural and remote families will continue to require support to navigate increasingly complex telecommunications services, connectivity options and technology solutions.
Abolishing a well-established service that is clearly delivering meaningful outcomes and addressing a genuine need is deeply disappointing. Rural and remote communities should not continue to bear the brunt of funding cuts, particularly in areas as critical as telecommunications access and educational connectivity. The loss of this service represents a significant step backwards for the families, students and communities who rely on it.
