Drones that warn of approaching bushfires, automated language translators to assist international visitors, and driverless public transport networks are part of a vision to make Hobart one of Australia’s most connected cities.
The City of Hobart doesn’t just aim to keep pace with other major cities; Hobart wants to be Australia’s most economically, social and environmentally connected community by 2030, according to Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds.
“Hobart is a place where new technologies have been invented and embraced for generations – Tasmania’s first people have been designing and using technology for more than 40 000 years – and innovation continues to play an important role.
“Connected Hobart is the City of Hobart’s response to the international Smart Cities agenda. It is the first program of its kind for the city and its Hobart-specific, place-based, people-first approach is unique in Australia.”
The Connected Hobart framework contains eight core elements that are vital to successfully creating a Smart City. These include defining the city’s identity, establishing partnerships, identifying the right technologies and responding to challenges.
Key projects include an automated vehicle trial, use of drones and sensors to track weather conditions and environmental threats, development of ethical decision-making principles, and other technologies that could lead to a more convenient, safer and more sustainable city.
“Some projects, such as the installation of smart bin sensors, have already started and are feeding back data that is allowing the City to operate more efficiently,” Director City Innovation Peter Carr said.
“Other initiatives help us to become more connected on a human level. For example, use of language translation technology in our tourism sector would help us to provide a more enjoyable experience for those visiting our city from overseas, and could break down communication barriers within our community.
“In contrast, we also believe it’s important to have tech-free zones, where people can escape the pressures of being constantly connected to digital networks and appreciate going offline for a while, particularly while connecting with our natural environment.”
Trial technology-free zones will be free of mobile, Wi-Fi, satellite and Bluetooth signals, allowing people to better connect with nature, cultural experiences, and each other.
Read the full report Connected Hobart Framework.