A digital education program that empowers older Australians to go online has been extended for a further year.
The Be Connected program is jointly delivered by the eSafety Commissioner and Department of Social Services to provide training to Australians over 50 who need online support.
Minister for Communications, Paul Fletcher said Be Connected helped to build skills and confidence online.
“According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there are 1.6 million Australians aged over 65 who do not use the internet at all,” Mr Fletcher said.
“With more services, including some Government services, moving online there’s a clear need to continue the support provided through the Be Connected program,” he said.
“Through face-to-face and online training, Be Connected builds the skills and confidence people need to access digital services and stay connected to friends and family online.”
He said the program was delivered by a nationwide network of community organisations that provide training to build digital skills and confidence; encourage online participation; and offer advice to remain safe online.
He said that in March last year a complementary program was launched – Be Connected Young Mentors – to provide a generational link in the training initiative.
“It provides older Australians the opportunity to learn from digitally-savvy young people while equipping young people with valuable communication and leadership skills,” Mr Fletcher said.
