04 Sep 2009
The Australian Government's Broadband for Seniors initiative will see the installation of up to 2000 free internet kiosks installed over three years across the country.
Forty-two kiosks are already operating, with many in regional and rural areas. Over the coming months hundreds of kiosks will be online across the country.
Only one in five Australians over the age of 65 years currently uses the internet meaning many older Australians are missing out on the ease of staying in touch with family and friends online. People aged 50 and over will be better connected to family, friends and the technological age with free computer training and internet access available across Australia.
Broadband for Seniors will bring older Australians together to learn about computers and share their experiences, giving them the confidence to get online. The kiosks are accessible to all seniors, including older citizens with disabilities and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, through the use of specific language software and assistive technology.
The Australian Government is currently looking for more community organisations to host kiosks, including computers, a broadband internet service and training materials.
Community organisations who wish to be involved can call the Broadband for Seniors hotline on 1300 795 897 or visit www.necseniors.net.au for more information.
Live Broadband for Seniors Kiosks are currently located at:
- Manjimup Public Library, Manjimup, WA
- Greenbushes Telecentre Inc, Greenbushes, WA