The Albanese Government's efforts to provide connectivity through new technology was highlighted on the world stage.
Minister for Communications Anika Wells joined government, civil society and industry representatives from around the world to discuss the use of digital technologies as a positive force for inclusion and opportunity at the United Nations High Level Week Digital for Good: For People and Prosperity in New York.
In her remarks Minister Wells highlighted the historic agreement between NBN Co and Amazon's Project Kuiper signed last month as an example of using new technologies to connect people.
Project Kuiper will use Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats) to bring high speed broadband to some of Australia's hardest to reach places.
The Albanese Government's commitment to legislate a Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation was also a focus of the Government's willingness to embrace new technologies to boost digital inclusion and access to essential services.
It is expected UOMO will leverage emerging direct to device technology provided through LEOSats to add more than 5 million square km of basic outdoor mobile SMS and voice coverage across Australia.
The Minister participated in the event as part of the United Nations High Level Week, where she is showcasing Australia's work in the digital and communications space alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The event was an opportunity to share Australia's experience of the life-changing impacts digital technologies can have across our vast, unique country.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:
"Connectivity is not a nice to have - it's a necessity - and new technology provides an amazing opportunity to ensure more people have better access to services.
"The Albanese Government is committed to improving access to communications infrastructure and services for Australians no matter where they live and tapping into new and emerging digital technologies will be essential in achieving this goal.
"It was a great opportunity to share Australia's experience in this space and learn from international counterparts about the transformative impacts of digital technologies.
"It's a privilege to meet with international colleagues and counterparts at this event to discuss a topic that is so important to us all."
