Bridging the digital divide with children and technology
New longitudinal research reveals important insights into the socioeconomic factors impacting First Nations children’s use of digital technologies.
New research examines how First Nations children’s use of the internet, computers and mobile phones has changed over time, and how it differs by socioeconomic background.
The analysis uses the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children. As a longitudinal survey, it follows the same group of First Nations children over an extended period, collecting survey information each year from families in urban, regional, remote and very remote areas.
The report provides an evidence base for policies aimed at improving digital inclusion for First Nations children.
Key findings from the research include:
- First Nations children’s use of the internet, computers and mobile phones grew substantially between 2011 and 2019. The use of digital technologies increased significantly with the age of the child.
- Just over two‑thirds of primary caregivers felt that their child was safe online in 2019, however perceptions of online safety have lessened over time.
- Almost three-quarters of primary caregivers had rules about their child’s internet access.
- First Nations children living in very remote areas still experience lower levels of digital connectivity than children in other areas. Access to the internet and computers in remote schools provides opportunities for digital connectivity that might not otherwise be possible for children living in these areas.
- First Nations children were more likely to use and own digital technologies if their primary caregiver earned income over $800 per week, was employed, lived with a partner, or had a post-secondary qualification.
The research was conducted by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
Learn more about the findings and understand the digital landscape for First Nations children in LSIC by exploring the ‘Use of digital technologies among First Nations children - Findings from the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children’ here: