Media Release by The Hon Jenny Macklin MP

Helping seniors stay smart online

Joint Media Release with:

  • Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy

The Australian Government is taking further steps to educate older Australians about the possible pitfalls of using the internet and the importance of online security.

A range of Stay Smart Online resources will be distributed to all of the Australian Government’s Broadband for Seniors kiosks during Cyber Security Awareness Week, from 6 to 11 June.

Cyber Security Awareness Week is designed to alert Australians to online security risks and educate them about the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and financial information online.

Key areas people need to know about are how to secure your computer, how to bank and shop safely online and how to identify and avoid online scams.

The internet provides many opportunities for older Australians to stay connected with family and friends, and manage everyday chores such as banking and shopping online.

Unfortunately there is always a risk of clever scams and traps online, and it is important the internet can be used safely and securely.

Under the Australian Government’s Broadband for Seniors initiative, $15 million is being invested over three years to establish up to 2,000 free internet kiosks across the country. Currently there are 631 kiosks in community halls, churches, aged care homes and other locations across the country.

Broadband for Seniors aims to provide access to and training on the internet in order for older Australians to gain confidence and build skills in using new technology.

The Broadband for Seniors initiative provides computers, software, internet access and computer training to local organisations who can use the kiosks to run computer and internet training courses and provide free internet access for their elderly members.

More information about the Stay Smart Online initiative and Cyber Security Awareness Week can be found at www.staysmartonline.gov.au

for more information on the Broadband for Seniors initiative visit www.necseniors.net.au or call the Broadband for Seniors hotline on 1300 795 897 during working hours.