Seniors better connected through online program

More than 7000 Queensland seniors have become tech savvy as part of a state-wide program aiming to help them navigate the digital world.

Launching the new Telstra Seniors Starter Bundle at the State Library of Queensland today for Seniors Week, Seniors Minister Coralee O’Rourke said more than 1200 Tech Savvy Seniors session had been held across the state.

“Run in partnership with Telstra and the State Library of Queensland, the Tech Savvy Seniors sessions provide older Queenslanders with the skills they need to access essential digital services,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Queensland seniors who complete a Tech Savvy Seniors course will gain basic technology skills, including how to use an iPad, navigate social media, shop online and access government services.

“Having these digital skills gives our seniors the confidence to participate in their communities and stay connected with family and friends.

“The Palaszczuk Government has provided $792,000 to deliver the Tech Savvy Seniors program and more than $160,000 to 14 community organisations to help transport participants to the venues. The Program is running across Queensland in more than 38 Local Government public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres.

“This great program joins a suite of initiatives introduced by the Palaszczuk Government over the past 18 months, as part of or new strategy, Queensland: an age-friendly community.”

Innovation Minister Leeanne Enoch said in a rapidly changing digital world it was important all Queenslanders were given the opportunity to develop their digital skills.

“Our world is changing more rapidly than at any other time in history,” Ms Enoch said.

“The influence of technology is spreading to every aspect of our lives and digital social inclusion is an important community issue.

“Digital confidence and competency are important to help Queenslanders of all ages find employment, improve their education, access services like banking and health, and to connect with friends and family.”

Telstra’s Chief Sustainability Officer Tim O’Leary was thrilled to see so many seniors making a move into the online world – particularly in regional areas.

“All Australians can benefit from being online and connected – no matter how old they are or where they live and we believe the more connected people are, the more opportunities they have,” Mr O’Leary said.

“From the Whitsundays to Western Downs, Mackay to Moreton Bay - Cassowary, Cairns and Cloncurry - it’s inspiring to see so many Queensland seniors getting tech savvy.

“Today, Telstra wants to make the step online even easier and through our Seniors Starter Bundle, Queensland Seniors Card holders can enjoy the benefits of being connected.”

The Telstra Seniors Starter Bundle, one of 6300 businesses offering discounts through the Government’s Seniors Business Discount Scheme, starts from $59/month and includes home phone and internet connection, unlimited local calls and cheap national and international call rates.

For more information about Seniors Week and other seniors initiatives, visit www.qld.gov.au/seniors or www.qldseniorsweek.org.au.

Media Contact: Minister O’Rourke’s office 3719 7170