By Ewen McRae
Moorabool council is encouraging more older residents to get online, with free digital classes being held at local libraries.
As part of the government’s ‘Be Connected’ initiative, the classes aim to increase the confidence, skills and online safety of older Australians when they use the internet.
Social Services Minister Christian Porter launched the program recently.
“Be Connected is another important step towards the government’s goal to foster digital skills, access and inclusion to empower everyone to thrive in a digital world,” Mr Porter said.
“I encourage older Australians who want to learn how to use digital technology confidently and safely, or who want to improve their current skills, to participate in the Be Connected program.”
Ian Blackburn is a volunteer at Lerderderg library every Wednesday from 9am-11am and patiently assists older residents with their IT requests. He has also been running classes in Gordon, Ballan and Bungaree.
Mr Blackburn encouraged residents to take up the chance to join the classes, and also encouraged other locals or community groups to consider volunteering to run a class.
Mr Blackburn will be at the Moorabool council’s seniors expo on October 10 at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall from 10am-1pm to answer questions about the classes.
