  This paper critically assesses wireless broadband internet infrastructure, in
the rural and remote communities of WDR in terms of supply, demand and
utilisation. Only 8 of 20 towns have ADSL/ADSL2+, and only 3 towns have 4G
mobile network coverage. Conversely all of the towns have 2G/3G mobile network
coverage but have problems with speed, reliability of service and capacity to
handle data traffic loads at peak times. Satellite broadband internet for
remote areas is also patchy at best. Satisfaction with existing wireless
broadband internet services is highly variable across rural and remote
communities in WDR. Finally we provide suggestions to improve broadband
internet access for rural and remote communities. Public and private investment
and sharing of wired and wireless broadband internet infrastructure is needed
to provide the backhaul networks and 4G mobile and fixed wireless services to
ensure high speed, reliable and affordable broadband services for rural and
remote communities.

Computers and Society