Executives from NSW Department of Education have been quizzed about issues with a $365 million project aimed at increasing connection in the state’s rural and remote public schools.
The rural access gap (RAG) initiative was financed in the 2020-21 budget to update school infrastructure and other resources, as well as expand access to digital instruction.
The digital restart fund provided around $85 million for the program’s initial year, with an additional $70.5 million committed throughout 2021-22.
Telstra is improving fibre access to over 2000 schools throughout the state as part of the scheme, which is estimated to result in a tenfold boost in internet speeds.
“We’re currently on target to complete all of the suggestions in that health check report, and the project is in good shape.”
Executives took note of a query regarding when the project team changes happened and stated that they want to share further information on the department’s response to the report.
Shoebridge also questioned the cost-benefit analysis conducted prior to the project’s funding.
“Minister, you know there was no cost-benefit analysis as part of the initiative, and that was noted by PwC as a pretty major shortcoming, wasn’t it?” He stated.
“I’m not sure what the problem is with investing in digital infrastructure and opportunities for regional kids,” education minister Sarah Mitchell said.
“As part of this, a business case was filed, and standard procedures were followed.”
