FEDERAL Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce said the New England Electorate’s seniors will continue to have free access to computers and internet training to ensure they are not left behind in the digital age, thanks to a $1.3 million Abbott Government investment.

The Abbott Government has invested $1.3 million to assist more than 97,000 older Australians continue building their digital skills under the Broadband for Seniors programme.

Mr Joyce said that older people in the New England Electorate would be able to learn important online skills including how to send emails, be cyber safe and use social media to stay in touch with friends and family.
 

“Everyone should have the opportunity to build confidence and skills using the computer and the internet,” Mr Joyce said.

Broadband for Seniors’ Kiosks in the New England Electorate will continue to have access to training tools and resources to support their volunteer tutors to provide one-on-one or small group training for seniors.

Broadband for Seniors’ kiosks can be found in the following locations: the Argyll Centre, part of the McLean Care complex, Inverell,  Armidale Mens Shed, Autumn Lodge Village Incorporated, Armidale, Glen Innes and District Commuity Centre Incorporated, Glen Innes Severn Public and TAFE Library, Gunnedah Community College, Guyra Shire Council, Tenterfield Community College, the Quirindi RSL Sub-Branch Club and the Willow Tree Visitor Information Centre.

“This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring our senior people with the Electorate don’t get left behind in the digital age,” he said.

Mr Joyce said there were about 1600 Broadband for Seniors’ Kiosks across Australia, set up in facilities such as community centres, libraries, clubs and aged care homes.

“Volunteer tutors provide one-on-one or small group training covering topics such as how to send emails, be cyber safe and use social media in a supportive and welcoming environment,” Mr Joyce  said.

“Broadband for Seniors provides support to help older Australians feel confident using technology.”