Mapping the Digital Gap

Mapping the Digital Gap is the first extensive study of digital inclusion and use of media and communications services in remote First Nations communities across Australia. Using qualitative and quantitative research methods, the project is providing data to help measure progress on Closing the Gap Target 17, which aims for equivalent levels of digital inclusion for First Nations people by 2026.

Mapping the Digital Gap is a partnership project between the ARC Centre of Excellence for Automated Decision-Making and Society (ADM+S) and funding partner Telstra, as part of the Australian Digital Inclusion Index research suite. The research team also partner with local First Nations organisations and co-researchers to undertake on-site research annually in ten participating communities.

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Djarindjin co-researcher Marlon Sampi doing survey with Daniel Shadforth

Djamika Ganambarr doing survey with Gawumala Gumana at Yirralka Ranger base in Gäṉgaṉ

2025 Outcomes Report

From 2022 to 2024, the Mapping the Digital Gap team partnered with local First Nations organisations to undertake three annual research visits to 10-12 remote and very remote First Nations communities across Australia.

This 2025 Outcomes Report provides the final summary of findings from the first phase of this research in 12 communities. It updates the 2024 report, with new analysis and case studies for Access, Affordability, Digital Ability and Media and Information services. It provides updated ADII scores for the remote research sites visited, facilitating up-to-date comparison against national outcomes for First Nations and non-First Nations Australians.

2025 Report Publications

Research sites

Mapping the Digital Gap visits a diverse range of research sites across remote Australia every year.

Phase one (2022–2024): The research team visited 12 very remote and regional communities to track digital inclusion over three years.
Phase two (2025–2027): The team is continuing its digital inclusion research program in new communities.

The team works in partnership with local First Nations organisations, employs local co-researchers, and supports local digital inclusion plans in each community.

View Research sites