Helping seniors engage in the digital age

Around 97,000 older Australians will continue to receive free access to computers and internet training to ensure they are not left behind in the digital age, thanks to a $1.3 million Abbott Government investment.

The Minister for Social Services, Scott Morrison, and Assistant Minister for Social Services, Mitch Fifield, said the funding will enable Adult Learning Australia to work with Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association and the University of the Third Age Online to deliver Broadband for Seniors until June 2017.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to build confidence and skills using computers and the internet,” Minister Morrison said.

“This funding will enable older Australians to continue to have free access to computers, the internet and basic training to help them connect with their families and community.”

Minister Fifield said there were around 1600 Broadband for Seniors kiosks across Australia, set up in facilities such as community centres, libraries, clubs and aged care homes.

“Volunteer tutors provide one-on-one or small group training covering topics such as how to send emails, be cyber safe and use social media in a supportive and welcoming environment,” Minister Fifield said. “Broadband for Seniors provides support to help older Australians feel confident using technology.”

Adult Learning Australia will work with the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association and University of the Third Age Online to deliver the programme until June 2017.

Broadband for Seniors is one of the many grants funding activities the Government is supporting through the new way of working for grants.

This new approach to grants funding builds on the Government’s commitment to developing a stronger, more empowered civil society by ensuring the sector has greater flexibility to address the service needs of individuals, families and communities.

More information on the new way of working for grants is available at www.dss.gov.au/grants.