38/07 Tuesday 17 April 2007
Clever Networks delivers smart solutions
The Minister of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, today announced Scope as one of the 16 successful applicants under the first round of funding for the Clever Networks Innovative Services Delivery element .
“People with disabilities and their families living in remote areas will soon be connected to specialist care thanks to a project named Scope Connect, developed by Scope in partnership with Database Consultants Australia,” Senator Coonan said.
Scope was established in 1948 as a not-for-profit organisation providing disability services in Victoria for children and adults with physical and multiple disabilities. Scope is committed to helping people with disabilities to participate in community life by working to make the communities more accessible and welcoming.
Scope will receive $1.4 million from the Australian Government and will contribute $1.4 million themselves.
“Scope Connect addresses the issues of isolation and the ability of therapists to be able to respond with immediate advice or assessment,” Senator Coonan said.
“Using broadband in an innovative way, this project will benefit therapists, clients and their families in remote and rural areas—linking communities with vital information, resources and support systems.”
“Using broadband and wireless broadband, Scope Connect will provide new computer equipment and instant online access for Scope staff in rural and remote areas of Victoria.
“This will allow them to access client records and medical histories and ensure immediate, quality care and services.”
Senator Coonan said that video-conferencing and voice-over-Internet networks will also allow therapists to confer with clients, families, information sources or other health professionals in real-time online dialogue.
“This project significantly benefits therapists in their time management cutting down their travel and administration time, and allowing them to have more focussed time with their clients and free up more time to see other clients,” Senator Coonan said.
“Equipping and training therapy staff in rural and remote areas to use technological innovations is made possible by improved access to broadband—an invaluable tool of the future.”
Clever Networks is a $113 million Australian Government program that will see improved delivery of services in regional, rural and remote Australia through innovative broadband projects and is part of the Australian Government’s broadband services that will ensure all Australians can access fast broadband regardless of where they live.
Successful projects to receive Clever Networks funding include virtual healthcare, remotely accessible interactive education services, and delivery of integrated state-wide emergency services.
More information about Clever Networks is available at www.dcita.gov.au/clevernetworks.
Media Contact: Fiona Telford - 02 6277 7480