Is a Smartphone Now a Basic Human Right?
In a changing digital world, experts are debating whether owning a smartphone should be considered a fundamental human right. As essential services like banking, government identification, and healthcare move online, people without access to digital technology are finding it increasingly difficult to participate in modern society.
For many Australians, a smartphone is no longer just a luxury item for entertainment. It has become a necessary tool for daily life. From using the 'myGov' portal to access tax and Centrelink information to checking public transport schedules, the government and private sectors now rely heavily on digital platforms to deliver services to the public.
However, this shift creates a 'digital divide.' People living in remote areas, those on low incomes, or older Australians who are less familiar with technology may struggle to keep up. If a person cannot afford a phone or a data plan, they may be effectively cut off from important services, which can lead to social and economic disadvantage.
Health experts and social advocates argue that because digital access is now linked to health and financial wellbeing, it should be treated as a utility, similar to electricity or water. They suggest that governments should consider policies to make smartphones and internet access more affordable for everyone, ensuring that no citizen is left behind in an increasingly connected world.
As the conversation continues, policymakers must decide how to balance the benefits of digital efficiency with the need for fairness. Ensuring that all Australians have the tools to access essential services remains a priority for the future of the nation’s digital infrastructure.