Seniors in the Bonner electorate 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 to continue building their digital skills under the Broadband for Seniors programme.

The Assistant Minister for Social Services, Mitch Fifield, made the announcement in Carindale on Wednesday at local aged care facility Carindale Brook, where he was hosted by Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP.

Mr Vasta said that older people in Bonner 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 Vasta said.

“This funding demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring older people in Bonner don’t get left behind in the digital age.”

Mr Vasta said there were around 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 Vasta said.

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

Broadband for Seniors kiosks in Bonner 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.

There are Broadband for Seniors kiosks in the following locations:

• Carindale Brook

• Garden City Retirement Home

• Manly Gardens

• Mt Gravatt Community Centre Inc.

• Queensland Rehabilitation Services Pty Ltd, Carindale Court

• Wynnum and Districts Chamber of Commerce Inc.

For more information about the Broadband for Seniors programme visit www.necseniors.net.au.