Public Wi-Fi Service retired in February 2026
After seven years of operation, Alexandrina Council’s Public Wi-Fi Network was retired on 27 February 2026.
The free Wi-Fi service was originally installed in 2018 through the Australian Government's Smart Cities and Suburbs Program and aimed to improve digital access across our region at key community and tourism locations across the district.
Over time, mobile coverage and affordable data plans have significantly improved digital access in our community. The use of the public network has steadily declined.
Maintaining the infrastructure has cost Council around $66,000 each year, and it has reached the end of its serviceable life. Replacing the ageing equipment will significantly exceed the original $119,600 received in Federal grant funding. Council will also face ongoing maintenance and technology upgrade costs.
Given that the network infrastructure is no longer fit for purpose, due to its age and condition, and the high cost of replacement, the service was decommissioned on 27 February 2026.
Community members can continue to access free Wi-Fi at Council's Goolwa and Strathalbyn Libraries and at Telstra Air/Smart Booth Wi-Fi locations.
For more information, please contact alex@alexandrina.sa.gov.au
The network was introduced in 2018 when mobile data was more expensive and less accessible. Since then, technology has advanced, mobile coverage has improved, and more people now access the internet through personal devices.
Maintaining the old failing Wi-Fi infrastructure has become costly and no longer represents good value for ratepayers, particularly given the current low usage of the service.
Decommissioning the Public Wi-Fi network will save around $66,000 a year. In addition, future replacement and maintenance costs of the infrastructure will greatly exceed the $119,600 grant received from the Australian Government.
Council-operated Public Wi-Fi outside of our main offices will be switched off by Friday, 27 February 2026.
Community members can continue to access free Wi-Fi at Council's Goolwa and Strathalbyn Libraries and at Telstra Air/Smart Booth Wi-Fi locations. Some cafes and visitor venues also provide internet access.
The network infrastructure has reached the end of its serviceable life and is no longer supported by suppliers. Upgrading would require new equipment, towers, and network licences, costing more than the original Federal grant project.
Given the current minimal public use, this level of reinvestment by Council isn’t considered responsible or cost-effective.
Council continues to improve its digital systems and community access to online services, including enhanced website functionality, online payments, and library technology upgrades. The focus is on delivering reliable, modern infrastructure that provides lasting value.
Is free Wi-Fi still available?
Yes, Community members can continue to access free Wi-Fi at Council's Goolwa and Strathalbyn Libraries and at Telstra Air/Smart Booth Wi-Fi locations. Some cafes and visitor venues also provide internet access.
If you have any questions or feedback about the Public Wi-Fi project, please contact alex@alexandrina.sa.gov.au.