New research on digital exclusion shows internet in Australia is almost universal, but some, particularly vulnerable groups, are still missing out.
The Bureau of Communications, Arts and Regional Research (BCARR) report shows that in 2024 only 2% of Australians did not have access to the internet, compared to 16% in 2010.
BCARR’s research indicates that Australians see the internet as an essential service, with 80% satisfied with their connection’s speed and reliability.
The report takes a closer look at the 2% of Australians without internet access who face higher rates of digital exclusion. They include:
- people aged 65 years and older
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples
- non-employed people
- people with disability
- rural Australians
- low income households
- people living in areas of socioeconomic disadvantage
- Australians with lower educational attainment.