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Older Australians with low internet skills can often feel isolated 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.
Be Connected is a free Australian Government initiative helping people to get the most out of going online.
It will enable older Australians to continue to gain the confidence and skills they need to use digital technology.
The program will cover the basics of going online, including:
- being safe online
- talking to or seeing family and friends who live far away, more often
- finding new friends or old friends who share similar interests and hobbies
- keeping up-to-date with what's happening in their community and around the world
- shopping online, safely and securely
Be Connected will deliver a range of resources specifically designed to support older Australians, as well as families, influencers and community organisations who want to help these Australians get online.
Be Connected website
Older Australians, and their families, peers and local community organisations, can access interactive learning activities, training courses, web apps and 'how-to' videos.
There are training courses covering the basics of using computers and digital devices, online shopping, socialising online and more - all designed to appeal and be of interest to older Australians.
Be Connected National Network Manager
Good Things Foundation is supporting community organisations and services that join the Be Connected Network to provide free, personalised and face-to-face training and support to older Australians.
Be Connected Network Partner Grants
A total of $20 million in small grants is available over the next three years to support organisations joining the Be Connected Network as a Network Partner.
These grants start at $1500 to help Be Connected Network Partners get started.
For more information about the grants go to: www.beconnected.esafety.gov.au
The Department of Social Services has overarching responsibility for implementing the Be Connected initiative, in partnership with the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.
The Riverina Community College is a Be Connected Network Capacity Builder and will be hosting an information day on August 20 at 11am at 96 Murray Street Wagga.