Broadband for Seniors arrives in Hall
25 March 2010
Today the Broadband for Seniors Kiosk was launched by Dorothy Braxton founder of U3A Online. Around thirty people attended the launch of the Kiosk which is situated in the Hall Cottage next to the School.
Seniors wanting to take advantage of the service can contact Bill Pearson on 0419 489 606 or email to make an appointment. There are four Tutors available at the moment to assist in training.
Pictured are Garrie Greenwood and Andie Pearson at the launch.
What is Broadband for Seniors?
Broadband for Seniors is part of the wider Australian Government initiative "Making Ends Meet - Plan for Older Australians, People with Disabilities and Carers".
The Australian Government is committing $5 million each year over 3 years, from 2008-09 to 2010-11, to NEC Australia Pty Ltd to develop and implement the Broadband for Seniors initiative.
The needs of older Australians wishing to be trained in the use of the internet will be met by the creation of approximately 2,000 seniors internet kiosks, provided by community organisations that support seniors. Kiosk sites will be rolled out using a phased approached and service locations identified on the basis of demonstrated need and willingness to provide a free service.
Broadband for Seniors will provide one-off support worth up to $10,000 per kiosk for desktop computers, broadband internet service, training and/or regular internet workshops to help you build the confidence to use new technology.
What are the aims of Broadband for Seniors?
Broadband for Seniors aims to:
- provide older Australians with access to computers and the internet via free internet kiosks,
- support seniors to gain confidence and build skills in using new technology,
- address the issue of older Australians feeling isolated and 'left behind' in a technological age, and,
- build community participation and social inclusion amongst older Australians.
What is the planned outcome for Broadband for Seniors?
The planned outcome for Broadband for Seniors is to increase the confidence and skills of older Australians in using computers and the internet, as well as helping to build their community participation and social inclusion.
Partners
NEC is partnering with a number of specialist groups is in order to help assess applicants who wish to host a kiosk and to help support delivery of the kiosks. These include
- Adult Learning Australia (ALA)
- Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association (ASCCA)
- University of the Third Age Online (U3A Online)
These organisations bring a complete and mature training model for seniors and have a proven, demonstrable record in service delivery including existing sites for Broadband for Seniors deployment.