A pānui from DECA

Kia ora koutou

The newly released State of the Nation report from the Salvation Army highlights the tough realities many in Aotearoa are facing, including rising living costs and growing food insecurity. As these pressures mount, the need to close the digital divide becomes even more urgent. As illustrated in our recent blogs, access to technology is key to creating opportunities in education, work and navigating everyday life.

The DECA team want to acknowledge the incredible individuals and groups in our communities who are working tirelessly to close the digital divide. Despite the growing challenges, your efforts are truly making a difference.

As the work progresses, we look forward to sharing more about what DECA has planned for 2025, including new research collaborations and the development of a regional digital navigator network to strengthen digital support across Aotearoa.

Ngā manaakitanga

Marie Silberstein | Te Takere | DECA Operations Team

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As a proud member of the Community Constellation, DECA is committed to working alongside over 20 community peak body and infrastructure organisations to strengthen our collective impact. The Community Constellation brings together thousands of member organisation, ranging from large providers to grassroots community group, to collaborate for meaningful change.

In November 2024, the Community Constellation hosted a webinar with Minister Willis, providing a vital opportunity for the community sector to engage directly with the Minister for Social Investment. This conversation highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing our communities.

We extend our thanks to Katie Bruce from Hui E! and Zoe Witika-Hawke, Kaiwhakahaere Matua | Chief Executive of E Tipu e Rea Whānau Services and co-chair of Te Pai Oranga Aotearoa SSPA, for facilitating this important discussion.

A detailed write-up of the webinar is now available on the Hui E! website here.

The webinar was recorded and can be watched here.

News, Tools and Further Reading

Natalie Schrogl’s article, Bridging the Digital Divide in the Intelligent Age, highlights the growing gap in digital access as AI and technology advance. She calls for investment in infrastructure, digital literacy and inclusive policies to ensure no one is left behind. A must-read for those committed to digital equity!
“Cybersecurity in community networks: Securing the commons” is the title of the latest outcome of the UN IGF Dynamic Coalition on Community Connectivity. The publication presents five papers that explore different aspects of threats and alternatives, as well as perspectives on digital care that could help communities mitigate risks and maximise benefits when connecting to the internet.
British Columbia First Nations Community Internet Connectivity Report
Internet NZ has shared it’s Public Policy Agenda for 2025
Reaching Every Corner: Why Financial Inclusion Must Go Beyond Bank Accounts

https://www.digitalequity.nz/resources