“That ICPA Qld supports ICPA (Aust) in its advocacy to have funding for the Regional Tech Hub (RTH) reinstated as a matter of urgency.”
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 communities.
Since its establishment six years ago, the Regional Tech Hub has provided assistance, resources, support and workshops to thousands of people living in rural and remote areas of Queensland and beyond. This support has made a substantial difference to education access for many rural and remote students and schools.
Alarmingly, this funding cut comes at a time when the need for the Regional Tech Hub services have never 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.
A simple visit to the Regional Tech Hub website demonstrates the extensive range of practical, easy-to-understand resources, advice and support available to rural and remote Australians from the committed staff. 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.
We appreciate any assistance ICPA Qld can provide to ICPA (Aust) in its advocacy to have this funding reinstated.
