This paper provides information on the background to the two pilot investigations into "interactive distance e-learning" [IDeL] following the introduction in New South Wales and in the Northern Territory of Australia of satellite-supported two-way broad-band internet services for school-age and adult distance education. The context is the expansion and reform of educational services to these communities. The IDeL service is provided to "School of the Air" students and parents on isolated stations, remote schools, students and adults in isolated Aboriginal communities, and adults on isolated properties or living in small towns seeking vocational education. The shift to satellite delivery of distance education allows teachers and students to communicate using real-time video, shared computer applications, graphics, audio-conferencing, online chat, and email. (Contains 16 figures and 3 tables.)