New Internet service provides easier access to Government (with pic)

24/5/00
Most people living in regional Western Australia will be able to access information from the State Government more easily and without having to travel to the city, thanks to a new Internet service.
Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan today launched 'OnlineWA' a new 'single doorway' to Government before a regional audience at the Busselton Senior Citizens' Centre.
Mr Cowan said the new service meant that anyone with access to an Internet connection could tap into information and services from more than 70 government agencies and some local governments.
The service can be accessed at http://www.onlinewa.com.au
Mr Cowan said that OnlineWA was easy to use and would be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Country people could use the system to pay bills, change their address details, or access information ranging from bus timetables to financial assistance schemes.
"OnlineWA will allow people to find the information they need using the method that suits them best," the Minister said.
"They won't even have to know the name of the Government agency that delivers a particular service and there are more than 2,000 content 'signposts' and three search or inquiry mechanisms to assist.
"If they need to contact an agency for additional assistance, those details will be clearly marked as well."
Mr Cowan said the WA Telecentre Network, which had funded advanced communications facilities in 76 small towns, would also enable access to OnlineWA in areas where Internet connections were difficult or costly.
"We will fund an additional 14 of these valuable community resources in the 2000-01 financial year," he said.
"Access to the site will also be available through most public libraries.
"The service will be available in a text-only version for people with limited Internet connections and we will supply a free upgrade CD to people who want to upgrade their browser to be able to handle the enhanced version.
"Also, the Western Australian Government is taking action to improve the quality and lessen the cost of regional Internet connections."
Media contacts: Peter Jackson (Minister's office) 9222 9595
Steve Keogh (Department of Commerce and Trade) 9327-5666

Deputy Premier Hendy Cowan explains the Single Doorway site to Con de Blecourt of the Busselton Senior Citizens' Computer Club.

The Single Doorway site can be accessed at http://www.onlinewa.com.au