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How to help seniors get online

Do you have an older friend or family member who would benefit from learning or improving their tech skills?

You can support older people to safely navigate the digital world by using the FREE Be Connected learning resources developed by eSafety.

Be their biggest advocate by demonstrating how the internet can be meaningful for them, and supporting them as they explore. If you can't show them in person, try giving them some instructions over the phone, by email or by sharing our easy steps for making video calls. Then you can talk through the other Be Connected learning resources together.

Be Connected is a good place to start

Be Connected is a joint initiative between the Department of Social Services, the eSafety Commissioner and Good Things Foundation to increase the confidence, skills and online safety of older Australians.

Become a digital mentor

The Be Connected learning resources include a short online course designed to help you support people as they learn to use computers and internet-connected devices or improve their digital skills. 

You will learn tips for effective language and techniques, and how to help people who are new to the internet overcome any barriers they may experience.

Learn how to become a digital mentor.

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Training and resources

Get access to online learning or find a community centre for face-to-face training. 

Join the Be Connected Network 

Community organisations committed to helping older Australians thrive in a digital world can get access to resources, grants and collaboration opportunities by becoming a Be Connected Network Partner

Library presentations for older Australians 

Libraries can register to host and stream live Be Connected online presentations to help improve the digital skills and confidence of older Australians in their community. Find out more.

Be Connected Young Mentors program 

Be Connected Young Mentors is an intergenerational program designed to bring older Australians together with high school children as digital learning mentors. The program provides support to organisations with connections to young people and/or older Australians, such as schools, libraries, aged care providers and community organisations. 

Last updated: 18/12/2022