Torres Strait Kaziw Meta has received 80 refurbished laptops as part of a national initiative to bridge the digital divide in one of Australia’s most remote regions; Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait).
The donation comes through the First Nations Device Bank (FNDB), an innovative program launched by WorkVentures in 2024 with the support of ACCAN and nbn. The initiative aims to tackle Closing the Gap Target 17 by enhancing digital inclusion for First Nations Australians.
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta CEO Thomas Dunsmore said the donation was a game-changer for the boarding facility who are committed to helping outer island boarders excel in their schoolwork.
“These devices will provide boarders with the tools to participate in online learning, build foundational digital skills, and expand their future opportunities,” said Mr Dunsmore.
“We are grateful to WorkVentures for this significant donation to support boarders and their education,”
“Access to reliable technology and stable internet should be a basic right, not a barrier,” he added.
Boarders will have access to refurbished HP ProBook 360s, donated by WorkVentures’ corporate partner CHG-MERIDIAN and come fully equipped with essential software, digital training materials, and six months of technical support.
Karen Stephen, Project Manager of Digital Projects & Partnerships at WorkVentures, said the FNDB collects devices from corporates and government organisations and redistributes them to First Nations communities through co-designed partnerships.
“Our model ensures devices are fit for purpose and tailored to community needs,” Mrs Stephen said.
“For Torres Strait Kaziw Meta, this meant a consistent fleet of the same model laptops, making it easier for both boarders and staff,” she added.
For local educators like Levi Dugger, a secondary teacher at Tagai State College and Torres Strait Kaziw Meta, the benefits of this program extended beyond the screen.
“Many of our boarders have never had a personal laptop. These devices will allow them to complete assignments, research, and safely explore the internet,” Mr Dugger said.
“These basic skills that are taken for granted elsewhere, but transformative here,” he added.
The Device Bank not only provided laptops but ensured wraparound digital training and mentoring support to build long-term capability as well.
This resonated deeply with Kantesha Ward, a Torres Strait digital advocate, local business owner and the 2024 Innovate with nbn Indigenous Business Award Winner.
“The future of work is driven by technological advancements and digital economies. However, remote communities like many in the Torres Strait are struggling to keep up for many reasons and one is accessibility,” Mrs Ward said.
Kantesha connected WorkVentures with Torres Strait Kaziw Meta after identifying an accessibility gap at the boarding facility.
“I hope to support young people in developing their digital literacy levels, create interest in STEM and encourage them to pursue remote work opportunities that allow them to remain on island and work for any company across the globe – or start their own,” Mrs Ward said.
The 80 laptops are part of a broader shipment of 200 laptops being distributed across the Torres Strait as part of the FNDB’s pilot rollout. The program was underscored by research showing a 23.5-point digital inclusion gap for Torres Strait Islanders compared to the national average; a stark contrast to the national First Nations average of 7.5 points. This divide was especially felt in education, employment, and telehealth access.
WorkVentures aims to scale the Device Bank nationally. By 2026, the goal was to create a fully stocked and accessible online platform where eligible community groups and not-for-profits can order free devices with wraparound support.
As Dunsmore put it, “This initiative is not just about laptops. It’s about unlocking potential, building futures, and ensuring our young people can thrive in the modern world without having to leave their identity behind.”
Media Contacts
Thomas Dunsmore
CEO, Torres Strait Kaziw Meta
1 Nazeer Street, Thursday Island QLD 4875
P: 07 4069 1284
M: 0423 577 283E: ThomasD@kaziwmeta.org.au
Karen Stephen
Project & Operations Partner, WorkVentures
karen.stephen@workventures.com.au
02 8907 3300 | 0403-750-315
www.workventures.com.au
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