16/9/04
Western Australia's Telecentre network is continuing to evolve in meeting the information and technology needs of the regional communities it serves.
Local Government and Regional Development Minister Tom Stephens told the Statewide Telecentre 2004 Conference in Scarborough today that sharing ideas can help ensure the vitality of the 97-strong network which serves regional and remote communities in WA.
"The telecentre network grew from a vision of ensuring that people in regional and remote communities could participate in the information revolution and use technology to access information and services and to develop their own interests, careers and businesses," Mr Stephens said.
"While this is still an important role in different communities, telecentres are developing new capacities.
"Some deliver services which would otherwise not be available to their communities, many have become the focal point for community building activities and some are combining with other local organisations to strengthen the quality of services they jointly offer.
"Because their management is community based, I have no doubt that the profile of telecentres will continue to adapt and develop to meet the needs of their communities."
The Minister said the existing network of telecentre facilities would expand to 114 during 2005, each offering ready access to a range of information and services through the use of the high-tech business equipment.
The Statewide Telecentre 2004 Conference brings telecentre representatives together from across the State for training, networking and introducing new concepts for future development of the telecentre network.
WA telecentres are jointly funded by the State Government and the Australian Government's Networking the Nation program, with the funds administered through the Department of Local Government and Regional Development.
Additional funding from the Rio Tinto WA Future Fund would also enable the establishment of a further eight telecentres to benefit remote indigenous communities.
More information about the telecentre network is available at http://www.telecentres.wa.gov.au/home/
Minister's office: 9213 6500
