We’re delighted that Wednesday saw the official launch of the Be Connected program, Australia’s flagship digital inclusion programme for older people, by Minister for Social Services, Christian Porter. And today the ESafety Commissioner officially launched the Be Connected website along with two older people whose lives have improved after learning how to use the internet.
Be Connected is a new Australian Government program aimed at increasing the confidence, skills and online safety of older Australians when they use the internet. There is $20 million in small grants given to community organisations over the next three years so that local organisations can get involved.
Minister Porter said: “Be Connected is another important step towards the Government’s goal to foster digital skills, access and inclusion to empower everyone to thrive in a digital world.
“I encourage older Australians who want to learn how to use digital technology confidently and safely, or who want to improve their current skills, to participate in the Be Connected program.
“Families, friends and community groups can also join the program to help older Australians realise the benefits of going online.”
“Community organisations that join the Be Connected Network will deliver free personalised face-to-face training and support to help older Australians engage with and embrace digital technology,”
At Good Things Foundation, we’re pleased to be a key partner in the program, recruiting and developing the Be Connected network, a movement that will support older Australians to engage with digital technology in their local communities. Organisations within the network will be eligible to apply for grant funding.
Find out how you can join our network.
Older Australians with low internet skills can often feel isolated from their community and family at a time in their lives when feeling connected is increasingly important. Be Connected aims to change that through a family and community centred approach.It will help older Australians to realise the value of being connected online and provide access to appropriate training and support in a safe and familiar environment.
Alongside the network, Be Connected also includes a learning portal, developed by the Office for the eSafety Commission, which includes a range of free courses and resources to help older Australians improve their skills. You can take a look at the website at www.beconnected.esafety.gov.au.