Frequently asked questions on Digital Connectivity Principles
What is digital connectivity?
Digital connectivity describes access to digital services, applications and online platforms. Access to digital connectivity is central to participation in the digital economy and the digital transformation of government services.
What is digital connectivity infrastructure?
Digital connectivity infrastructure is the physical infrastructure or ‘digital plumbing’ that enables access to networks delivering digital services. It includes network cabling such as fibre optic lines or broadband connections; wi-fi access points and other wireless networking equipment; Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure such as smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras; and In-Building Coverage (IBC) of the Public Safety Network (PSN).
Why do we need Digital Connectivity Principles?
Digital services are fundamental to the economic and social functioning of society. This includes the operations of government, facilitation of business, provision of services to the community, and for the purpose of public safety and emergency management.
The Digital Connectivity Principles (Principles) ensure that fit-for-purpose digital connectivity infrastructure is provided in NSW Government-funded infrastructure, enabling access to digital services.
This helps to resolve instances where digital connectivity infrastructure has not been adequately provided in completed projects and to avoid expensive retrofitting, while harnessing opportunities for efficient and shared use of digital infrastructure.
Who needs to comply with the Digital Connectivity Principles?
The Principles apply to new NSW Government-funded infrastructure projects, as well as major upgrades and renewals of existing NSW Government assets that require a business case ($10 million and above).
The Principles apply to all NSW Government departments and public service agencies. This includes statutory authorities and all NSW Government entities that submit an annual report to a Secretary of a NSW Government department or directly to a NSW Minister or the NSW Premier.
While complying with the Principles is not mandatory for State Owned Corporations or local councils, their adoption is encouraged as a benchmark for digital infrastructure planning.
The Principles do not apply where the NSW Government provides grant funding to a third party to support their delivery of non-NSW Government infrastructure.
How do I comply with the Digital Connectivity Principles?
Implementation of the Digital Connectivity Principles should be incorporated into standard infrastructure project planning processes, along with those for other critical utilities.
A digital connectivity needs assessment should be undertaken for each individual NSW Government-funded infrastructure project. The purpose of this assessment is to identify the customers’ digital service needs, match these needs with digital connectivity infrastructure options and identify the associated costs.
When should I apply the Digital Connectivity Principles?
The Principles should be considered at the earliest opportunity when initiating an infrastructure delivery project. This will ensure that they are incorporated into the project’s scope, plan and schedule and that the deliverables and dependencies are understood in addition to funding considerations.
The Principles come into effect from 1 March 2024.
They do not apply retrospectively to existing infrastructure.