Essential connections

Anglicare Tasmania supports Anglicare Australia’s call for governments to treat and regulate the internet as an essential service.

Released as part of Anti-Poverty Week, Anglicare Australia’s Essential Connections report looks at how poverty limits access to the internet, and how that lack of access worsens poverty.

Executive Director Kasy Chambers said that governments must regulate the internet as an essential service.

“Across the country, our services have told us that people struggle to get help, information, and opportunities without access to the internet,” she said.

“Governments have moved their systems online, assuming everyone will have access. They now force people to use special apps and conduct job searches online in exchange for basic support. But they do not guarantee access or treat the internet as an essential service.

“People on low incomes are often forced to use expensive internet options on their phones, or to travel to access free internet, because they can’t afford internet plans. That must change.

“We are calling for guaranteed low-cost options for people who need them. Internet providers must also offer hardship options and payment plans instead of cutting people off, as they do for water and utilities.”

Kasy said:

The internet has become an essential service for all Australians. It’s time to treat it like one.