Smart infrastructure spreads free wi-fi

PARTS of central Geelong, Norlane and Corio can now get access to free public wi-fi and enhanced broadband through a state government initiative to improve regional connectivity.

The City of Greater Geelong has worked with telecommunications providers ENE.Hub, AArnet, Superloop and Swoop Broadband to deliver the project, which has installed 19 WiFi smart poles in key business, tourism, recreation and cultural precincts in Geelong and the northern suburbs via $1.8 million from the Connecting Regional Communities Program.

Construction of these smart poles is complete and wi-fi is now available at 26 locations in the municipality.

The smart poles provide free wi-fi, and will also help to capture new tourism opportunities, giving visitors access to real-time information including timetables or local history, restaurants and accommodation.

The new infrastructure includes LED lighting, wireless charging outlets, a public address system, electric vehicle chargers, CCTV and motion sensors, which will enable the City of Greater Geelong’s Smarter Suburbs plan to adopt “smart city” features in its operations and services.

“Free public wi-fi is an important way to increase digital inclusion – whether it’s at iconic sites such as the Geelong Waterfront and Kardinia Park, or at community meeting spots in Norlane and Corio,” Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy said.”

The enhanced broadband network delivers 22 km of fibre to provide faster broadband for local businesses and residents in North Geelong.

“Our head office in Corio has had an unreliable broadband connection in the past, so we’re looking forward to trying this new super-fast and reliable broadband connection,” Stephen Cumming from AKS Industries said.

“Smarter Suburbs looks like a real game-changer for us and for other innovation-based industries in Geelong, particularly as we have offices in Queensland and Tasmania, as well as staff working from home and internationally.”

The Victorian government says it has invested $130 million in improving connectivity to strengthen the state’s economy since 2014, including through free wi-fi services.

The $550 million Connecting Victoria program is fast-tracking improvements to mobile coverage and broadband access across the state, and more projects will be announced throughout this year.

“As we build more digital connectivity here in Geelong, we are also helping to bridge the digital divide by making sure everyone has access to high-speed internet and better connecting them with the online world,” Geelong MP Christine Couzens said.

To find out more, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/smartersuburbs