By Chris JollyThursday 17 Oct 2024Hope DriveLifestyleReading Time: 3 minutes
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, many Australians find themselves lagging, in terms of access and the skills necessary to navigate modern technology.
Key points
- One-quarter of Australians are digitally excluded due to lack of access, skills, or confidence.
- Local organizations and events play a vital role in building digital skills and confidence.
- Digital exclusion affects a diverse range of Australians, from seniors to returning workforce members.
- Listen to the full conversation with Hope Drive’s Chris Jolly in the player above.
This goes beyond social media and entertainment, to accessing essential services from the government, through to electricity, phone, and banking.
This is where community initiatives are stepping up to bridge this gap, empowering people to embrace technology with confidence.
Bridging the digital divide: what is ‘digital exclusion’?
You may find it surprising to know that roughly one in four Australians are digitally excluded.
Linda Berrigan, Director of Good Things Australia, says this is concerning.
“They actually don’t have access to a good internet connection, or they don’t have the technology, or perhaps people can’t afford to pay for devices and data,” she told Hope Drive.
Broader implications and impact
Lack of connectivity isn’t simply a minor inconvenience – these barriers also impede access to government services that heavily rely on internet connectivity.
The consequences are profound, shaping individuals’ interactions with society and hindering their ability to fulfill basic civic duties.
One-quarter of Australians are digitally excluded due to lack of access, skills, or confidence.
On top of that, missing out on educational resources and economic opportunities in a world where digital capabilities are increasingly intertwined with daily life, can cause social and economic isolation.
Community initiatives bridging the gap through local action
Community-led initiatives have proven to be a powerful force in bridging the digital divide.
Good Things Australia spearheads these efforts across the country, working in collaboration with local organizations such as men’s sheds and multicultural groups.
“We work with community organisations all across Australia…. to give them digital skills so that they can train other people,” Linda said.
Through events like Get Online Week, these organizations offer free digital skills sessions designed to bolster confidence and proficiency in navigating the digital world.
Such initiatives not only impart knowledge but also foster an inclusive environment where learning is accessible and engaging.
The power of familiarity and comfort
One big tip Linda highlights is the fact that having familiar faces leading sessions “helps reduce that fear of people having to go into somewhere that they don’t feel comfortable.”
Local organizations and events play a vital role in building digital skills and confidence.
By hosting events in local, trusted environments, these initiatives effectively dismantle barriers that often deter individuals from engaging with technology.
Diverse groups facing digital exclusion
Contrary to common perceptions, the digital divide isn’t an issue confined to older generations.
Some women re-entering the workforce, for instance, find that technological advancements have outpaced their earlier skills.
“Women… who might have left the workforce for a while… find it difficult to keep up with tech advancements,” Linda points out.
This demographic diversity underscores the complexity of digital exclusion and the need for varied and tailored approaches to digital literacy.
It emphasizes that the challenge is about readiness for a digital future, regardless of one’s starting point in life.
Conquering concerns to build confidence
Concerns regarding online safety, scams, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence also contribute to this hesitation in adopting digital tools.
“People are worried about things that concern them, like AI… that can sometimes affect people’s desire or motivation to get online as well,” Linda said.
Digital exclusion affects a diverse range of Australians, from seniors to returning workforce members.
The workshops are a great way to address these concerns, as education and support not only enhance digital literacy, but they also empower individuals to confidently join the digital economy.
Capturing the momentum: moving towards a digitally inclusive future
Thankfully community-led initiatives such as Get Online Week put us all on the path towards digital inclusion in Australia, bringing hope with practical support to those who feel left behind.
Through tailored events and local collaborations, these initiatives offer a lifeline, encouraging Australians from all walks of life to embrace digital skills crucial for everyday life.
Listen to the full conversation with Hope Drive’s Chris Jolly in the player above.
Feature image: Photo by CanvaPro