Helping hand in the digital age

The technology age is new to Alan Hibble, even though to most digital adopters it’s old hat.
Alan and wife Kylie are among the millions of Australians left behind by the digital movement.
That is about to change for the Hibbles as part of the National Year of Digital Inclusion, which is launching in Geelong next week.
“I am looking forward to learning as much as I can about digital technology,” Allan said.
The couple have now become regular users of the free wi-fi at Whittington Link.
“The free wi-fi here lets us use the internet without having to pay for it, it makes a big difference to us,” Allan said.
Councillor Rod Macdonald, who holds the council portfolio for the Knowledge Economy and Education, said digital inclusion meant everybody had equal access to technology and assistance in using it regardless of income, ability or disadvantage.
“It’s an alarming fact that one in five Australian adults are not online – that’s almost 4 million people,” he said.
“There are a number of reasons why people may not use digital services.
“They may be disadvantaged by a lack of skills or confidence.
“They may not be online because they don’t have access where they live or for financial reasons.”
Cr Macdonald said there were various ways for people to improve their digital literacy or help a friend, family member or neighbour who might be digitally isolated.
“Help someone learn a new skill, get involved with free technology lessons at your local library, get assistance with managing mobile phone debt and know where free wi-fi is available.
“Free wi-fi is a really important part of digital inclusion as it gives people access to technology without racking up huge internet usage debts.”
Cr Macdonald said the National Year of Digital Inclusion would host a number of events which are planned to help people learn new digital skills throughout the year.