Perth Expo 2026 Program Digital Inclusion WA is shaping up to be a landmark event for Western Australia’s connected communities. The program focuses on expanding digital access, skills, and confidence across regional and metropolitan areas, ensuring more people can fully participate in education, work, and civic life.
This edition highlights partnerships between government, industry, and local organizations to drive practical outcomes for inclusion, innovation, and economic opportunity. Below is a structured overview of how the program advances digital equity across the state.
| Initiative | Target Audience | Key Activities | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Access Hubs | Regional and remote residents | Free public access points, device lending, and local support | Improved connectivity and reduced isolation |
| Skills Workshops | Adult learners and small businesses | Digital literacy training, online safety, and basic coding | Increased confidence and practical capabilities |
| Inclusive Design Labs | Public servants and startups | Co-design sessions for accessible services and products | More user-centered and equitable solutions |
| Youth Pathways Program | Students and early career seekers | Mentoring, internships, and project-based learning | Stronger pathways into tech and digital roles |
Community Access Hubs and Local Partnerships
The Perth Expo 2026 Program Digital Inclusion WA prioritizes physical and virtual entry points where people can explore technology with expert guidance. These hubs serve as trusted spaces for first-time users, seniors, and small businesses to build essential skills without pressure or jargon.
Local organizations co-run these sites, ensuring services reflect community needs, language, and cultural understanding. By aligning schedules and resources, partners create a consistent, high-quality experience that supports sustained engagement rather than one-off events.
Skills Workshops for Everyday Digital Confidence
Workshops under the program focus on practical competencies such as using government online services, managing digital identity, and protecting privacy. Short, modular sessions are designed for busy adults, with childcare support and transport options where possible.
Small businesses receive targeted help with e-commerce, data literacy, and cybersecurity basics, enabling them to compete more effectively in local and global markets. Facilitators emphasize real-world tasks so participants leave with completed forms, set-up accounts, and personalized action plans.
Inclusive Design Labs and Co-Creation
Inclusive design labs bring together public servants, people with lived experience, and technologists to prototype services and products that work for diverse abilities. These sessions surface barriers early, reducing costly redesigns and improving fairness in outcomes.
Startups gain direct exposure to public sector challenges, fostering responsible innovation grounded in equity. The labs also build capacity across government teams, helping them integrate inclusive practices into everyday decision-making and service delivery.
Youth Pathways and Future Workforce Development
The youth pathways component connects students with mentors, internships, and project-based challenges that mirror real industry problems. Schools, TAFEs, and universities collaborate to align curriculum with emerging digital roles, ensuring training stays relevant and responsive to employer needs.
By supporting underrepresented young people, the program broadens participation in tech and data careers, strengthening diversity and innovation across Western Australia’s digital economy. Tracking participant outcomes helps refine pathways and demonstrate impact over time.
Key Takeaways and Recommended Actions
- Review the program schedule and locate community access hubs near you to plan visits and workshops.
- Register early for skills sessions and inclusive design labs to secure preferred times and support needs.
- Encourage local small businesses and youth groups to participate, leveraging tailored resources and mentorship opportunities.
- Stay connected through official channels for updates, success stories, and feedback opportunities that shape future editions.
FAQ
Reader questions
How can regional communities access the digital inclusion hubs during Perth Expo 2026?
Regional communities can visit designated hub locations listed on the official Perth Expo 2026 Program Digital Inclusion WA website, with schedules and transport options provided in advance through local councils and partner organizations.
What specific skills workshops are available for small businesses in the program?
Small businesses can attend workshops on e-commerce setup, basic data analytics, online payment systems, and cybersecurity essentials, tailored to different industries and experience levels.
Are the inclusive design labs open to startups and community organizations, not just government agencies?
Yes, startups and community organizations are invited to participate in inclusive design labs, collaborating with public servants to co-create solutions that address real-world accessibility and equity challenges.
How does the youth pathways program support students from underrepresented backgrounds?
The youth pathways program provides mentoring, paid internships, and project-based learning, with targeted outreach and support to help students from underrepresented backgrounds enter and succeed in digital careers.