Melbourne’s free city Wi-Fi, initially piloted by iiNet nearly a decade ago, is due for a significant upgrade. VicFreeWiFi, introduced in 2016, currently caters to approximately 50,000 unique users monthly within the City of Melbourne’s jurisdiction.
As the existing network infrastructure nears its end-of-life phase, the Victorian government is poised to enhance speed, capacity, and overall functionality to align with modern mobile devices and computing standards. Recognizing the evolving role of free public Wi-Fi, the government aims to not only promote tourism and digital inclusion but also bolster economic activity.
In a recent request for information, Victoria’s Department of Government Services (DGS) emphasized the Wi-Fi service’s importance in reducing digital exclusion barriers and enhancing emergency resilience. Furthermore, the government plans to integrate additional technologies, including transport monitoring, Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, CCTV surveillance, digital signage, Eduroam, and a public address system.
Key locations within the VicFreeWiFi zone include prominent areas like Bourke Street Mall, Swanston Street, Exhibition Street, and Queen Victoria Market. Additionally, the refurbishment will encompass major transport hubs such as Flinders Street Station and Southern Cross Station, along with several public edifices like the Town Hall, National Art Gallery Precinct, and the exterior of the State Library.
The DGS has identified growth zones such as Docklands, Fishermans Bend Precinct, and Arden Precinct, along with recreational areas like the Botanic Gardens, for inclusion in the upgraded network.
Initially awarded to iiNet in 2014 for $6.7 million, the project now falls under the operation of TPG Telecom, following its acquisition of iiNet for $1.56 billion in 2015. It is anticipated that TPG Telecom will bid to manage the revamped service.
Originally dubbed the “largest Wi-Fi deployment in Australia,” the project was a collaborative effort between the state government and Melbourne City Council, initially named ‘VicGovFree’. Oversight of the project has since transitioned to the DGS, established with the mandate to modernize and digitize Victoria’s systems and platforms.