Free Internet Kiosk officially opens in Watsonia
12 October 2009 Seniors from Watsonia and surrounds will be able to access the web and increase their internet skills following the official opening of a free internet kiosk at Watsonia Neighbourhood House on Monday, 12th October. Ms Macklin joined members of the Watsonia Neighbourhood House community, who have two computers available as part of the kiosk to allow seniors to access the internet free of charge.
Under the Australian Government’s Broadband for Seniors initiative, $15 million is being invested over three years to install up to 2000 kiosks across the country.
Federal Member for Jagajaga, Jenny Macklin MP said local residents aged 50 and over will now be better connected to family, friends and the technological age with free computer training and internet access.
“Only one in five Australians over the age of 65 years currently uses the internet,”
“That means many older local residents are still missing out on the ease of staying in touch with family and friends online,”
“The internet is a standard communication tool these days, so it is important that we do what we can to increase internet access for local seniors,”
“This is great news for Watsonia seniors that rely on the internet – and for those who would like to start exploring.” Ms Macklin said.
Broadband for Seniors will bring older Australians together to learn about computers and share their experiences, giving them the confidence to get online.
The kiosks are accessible to all seniors, including older citizens with disabilities and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, through the use of specific language software and assistive technology.
The Australian Government, NEC Australia, Adult Learning Australia, the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association and the University of the Third Age Online are working together to provide this free service.
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