High-speed link

THE State Government has announced $250,000 of Commonwealth funding to assist regional telecentres provide high-speed Internet access to regional WA.

Telecentres would be eligible to apply for a grant of up to $2,500 to assist with either the establishment of broadband access or to assist with plan payments or the enhancement of existing services.

The Broadband Assistance Package is funded through the Federal Government’s Networking the Nation Program, with the funds administered by the Department of Local Government and Regional Development.

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Tom Stephens said regional access to broadband would provide a level of service that was expected by urban-based Internet users, but which has not been readily available to regional WA.