Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs and Minister for Disability Reform, the Hon Jenny Macklin MP, with Maria Dabrowa and John McMahon at the Yarraville Senior Citizens Centre Broadband for Seniors Kiosk.
Broadband for Seniors
Older Australians can stay connected to family and friends through the Australian Government’s Broadband for Seniors initiative.
Broadband for Seniors supports older Australians in gaining the confidence and skills needed to use new technology, so they can participate in, and share the benefits of the growing digital economy.
Case Study: George Town Online Access Centre
The Australian Government has committed over $25 million to Broadband for Seniors over seven years, 2008 to 2015. This initiative is part of the Australian Government’s National Digital Economy Strategy.
Since 2008, around 2,000 Broadband for Seniors kiosks have been established across Australia, where Australia’s seniors can access free, personalised training on how to use a computer and surf the internet.
Guidance and on-going support is provided in a friendly face-to-face environment by volunteer tutors on topics such as how to email, surf the internet, Skype and how to stay safe whilst online.
Seniors also receive access to training materials including an online development course so that they can learn at their own pace, particularly on their computers at home.
Training courses have been designed with the unique learning needs of seniors in mind and are easy to use – even for those who have never used a computer before.
Kiosks are located in places convenient for seniors such as community centres, retirement villages, libraries and senior citizens clubs.
Broadband for Seniors is delivered by NEC Australia in partnership with Adult Learning Australia, Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association and the University of the Third Age Online.
Where can I find more information?
For more information, or to find kiosks in your area, contact the Broadband for Seniors helpline on 1300 795 897 (call rates are higher from mobile phones) or go to the Broadband for Seniors website.