Indigenous Australians and the ‘digital divide’

Abstract

As a result of their disadvantaged socioeconomic position, Indigenous Australians experience disadvantaged digital information access, both in terms of the distribution of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and the skills-based capabilities required for their effective utilisation (e.g., literacy and information literacy). As social, economic, and political opportunity becomes increasingly wedded to ICT access in the information society, Indigenous digital disadvantage threatens to perpetuate or exacerbate the existing inequalities constraining access. Despite concerns such as the issue of information imperialism, Indigenous Australians have recognised the empowering potential of the Internet as an information resource, communication tool, and publishing medium. Though the policies of government and the information profession commit to maximising equity of ICT and information access, Indigenous digital disadvantage suggests the need for greater intervention and comprehensive strategies in the interests of a socially inclusive information society, of benefit to all Australians.