Growing Indigenous Knowledge Centres

The Growing Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) project is supporting the establishment of 3 new digital IKCs in Doomadgee, Kowanyama, and Mornington, and the delivery of digital programs in existing IKCs in 12 Indigenous Councils across Queensland. 

Indigenous Knowledge Centres are operated by Indigenous Shire Councils in partnership with State Library and play a crucial role in increasing digital inclusion by providing internet access and digital skills development.

The project provides funding to the councils to purchase technology needed to deliver digital capability programs selected from State Library’s Digital Ideas Catalogue to meet community digital needs and interests. Programs include recording languages, digital art, fashion design, sharing stories via videos and podcasts, and researching family history. 

The project also focuses on developing basic digital skills and enabling access to digital services, particularly as more government services move online. Digital literacy is crucial to prevent individuals and communities from being left behind. 

First Nations digital inclusion is a key part of the federal government’s Closing the Gap target, ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have access to information and services to participate in the digital economy. 

The project is funded by the Queensland Government’s Our Thriving Digital Future: Queensland’s Digital Economy Strategy 2023-2026