Free WiFi is coming

By Nadia Dimattina

Docklanders will enjoy free WiFi by the end of this year.

The State Government launched its VicFreeWiFi in September and currently provides free WiFi to the City Loop, Bourke St Mall, Queen Victoria Market and South Wharf promenade. 

The government says the 13 hotspots already installed in Docklands should be up and running later this year.

A government map shows seven TPG-powered modems in Harbour Esplanade, three in LaTrobe and three in NewQuay.

Once activated, users will have a 250MB data daily limit and will be able to access the WiFi without using personal logins or passwords.

This amount of data usage is equivalent to two hours of web browsing and sending up to 1000 Twitter or Facebook posts. 

Communications advisor for the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), Jacqui Mullins said more locations, including Docklands would be given access to the free WiFi by the end of the year.

“We anticipate various points in Docklands and all major CBD streets and tourist precincts, will be available throughout Melbourne’s CBD by the end of 2016,” Ms Mullins said.

“We are working to a systematic schedule and will continue to make new locations available as they are ready for use – including various points in Docklands,” she said. 

Ms Mullins believes free public WiFi will strongly benefit locals in Docklands.

“The Docklands area is a thriving business, tourism and residential precinct. Free public WiFi has a range benefits for locals and visitors. It will enhance the Docklands visitor experience – enabling them to get directions, book tickets and to find restaurants,” she said

The WiFi coverage is being provided outdoors, in and around public-owned spaces. 

Victorian State Government media advisor, Caitlin Walsh, said the free WiFi network gave preference to particular areas.

“There is preference being given to higher-use areas including popular pedestrian streets, public transport, gathering points and tourist attractions,” she said.

Ms Walsh said the entire free WiFi network should be up and running by the end of the year catering to many Victorian’s demands for connectivity.

“Once complete, Victoria’s free Wi-Fi pilot will be the largest free public Wi-Fi network in Australia,” she said. 

Docklands residents are able to access free WiFi at Southern Cross station and at Etihad stadium until the new VicFreeWiFi modems are officially activated.