Designing Digital Inclusion: The Role of Local Champions

This study examines digital inclusion as a crucial element in addressing the digital divide, particularly in the context of e-government services at the local government level. Through collaboration with Campbelltown Council in New South Wales, Australia, a Design Science Research approach is employed to develop digital design principles aimed at enhancing community welfare. Focusing on the role of community champions in facilitating digital access for underserved populations, the preliminary underscore the challenges and opportunities in integrating these champions into digital-first initiatives, with the goal of creating actionable frameworks.