GPT said people could now access free Wi-Fi within its Wollongong Central shopping centre.

The council has floated the idea of installing Wi-Fi in Crown St Mall but is yet to consider it in any detail.

Wollongong Central manager Dean Young said shoppers would be able to log on from mobile phones, laptops or tablet devices for up to an hour at a time.

"People now expect to stay connected and be able to respond instantly, whether it's accessing a contact, posting information via Facebook and Twitter, or solving a problem at work," Mr Young said.

"Being able to log on from wherever they are is increasingly becoming a key factor in determining how and where people spend their time," he added.

Wi-Fi users will have access to 40MB of free download, Mr Young said.

Liberal councillor Michelle Blicavs welcomed the new service, saying it would help promote the city to a broader range of people.

She said the council was awaiting a costs and management report on implementing Wi-Fi in the mall.

"I understand it [the report] is progressing and councillors should receive the information to consider in February," she said.

"I'll be pushing to have this go ahead as soon as possible as I believe it is critical for business growth in our region."