Victorian free public Wi-Fi pilot
The Victorian Government has launched a pilot of free public Wi-Fi in central Ballarat and central Bendigo, aimed at developing tourism, education, social inclusion, encouraging new business models, and creating a consistent Wi-Fi experience for residents and visitors.
The Wi-Fi project is funded for five years with a one-off $6.7 million (ex GST) grant provided to iiNet to build, manage and maintain the network.
With Victoria's free public Wi-Fi, users will:
- be able to access the network outdoors, at street level
- be able to download up to 250MB per day
- have no time limits
- not have to provide personal emails or log-in details
- not be 'pushed' extra advertising from the service
The hotspot locations
Wi-Fi is now available at the following locations:
Central Ballarat
Download Map - free Wi-Fi in Ballarat (JPEG, 323KB)
Download Map - free Wi-Fi in Ballarat - Lake Wendouree (JPEG, 314KB)
Central Bendigo
Download Map - free Wi-Fi in Bendigo (JPEG, 3470KB)
Central Melbourne
Queen Victoria Market, Queen Street/Victoria Street entrance area.
How to connect to the network
Connecting to the Victorian free public Wi-Fi network can be done in four easy steps:
- Locate your nearest Wi-Fi hotspot
- Go to the Wi-Fi settings on your mobile device and select VicFreeWiFi
- Follow the prompts on the screen to connect
- Start using Wi-Fi.
No details such as email, passwords, or other personal data, need to be provided to use the free outdoor public Wi-Fi.
Customer support
For help with using the Victorian free public Wi-Fi network, please contact iiNet on 1300 668 847 or visit website www.iinet.net.au/wifi-hotspots
For tips about safety online, visit:
ACMA
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) provides a comprehensive national program of cybersafety initiatives as part of the Australian Government's cybersafety policy. As well as managing the public complaints process about prohibited and potentially prohibited material on the internet, ACMA's program includes researching current trends in cybersafety, undertaking targeted information and awareness-raising campaigns and activities, and developing cybersafety education materials for use in schools. See www.acma.gov.au
Stay Smart Online
Stay Smart Online is the Australian Government's online safety and security website, designed to help everyone understand the risks and simple steps we can take to protect our personal and financial information online.
https://www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/internet/stay-smart-online
Mobile devices, like smartphones tablets and laptops, can be hacked, infected with a virus and, if unsecured, provide access to your personal information. For more information on protecting yourself and your mobile device when using a public Wi-Fi service, visit:
https://www.communications.gov.au/what-we-do/internet/stay-smart-online/mobile-devices
eSafety website - Office of the Children's eSafety Commissioner
The eSafety website provides important information about how to protect children when they experience cyberbullying or prohibited online content.
Information for parents and teachers
Kids Helpline
If you are aged 5-25, Kids Helpline provides free and confidential online and phone counselling 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 55 1800.
Contact us
Please email vicfreewifi@vic.gov.au for further information.