With over 2.3 million older Australians not online, many Victorian seniors are being left behind, lacking the skills to take advantage of being connected and up to date with the latest technology.

Through the Tech Savvy Seniors (TSS) program presented by Telstra in partnership with the Victorian government, Victorians are given the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence to use technology for socialising, accessing important services or conducting personal business. This program is available in languages including Greek, which helps ensure local immigrants are also given the opportunity to participate in the courses.

Mrs. Jenny Touloupas who relocated to Australia in 1974, from Astakos, Greece after meeting her husband while visiting Melbourne, has relied on her local TSS program to help her keep up to date with the latest technology.

“I am the president of a local seniors club and I need the technology to send and receive emails, make lists of the members and communicate with them,” Mrs Touloupas said.

She found Telstra’s ‘introduction to email’ class for beginners very beneficial, and is most excited about being able to communicate with family, shop online and staying up to date with the latest news, thanks to the program. When asked if she felt more confident using technology, Mrs Touloupas said, “Yes of course, but I certainly need more lessons! I feel more confident now, and I’m not afraid that I might erase something that I need when sending emails.”

Other resources available for seniors:

1. ‘Self-teach’ videos: Watch easy to follow videos to learn at your own pace. To start learning click here
2. Face-to-face training: Register for training in a location near you. For state based and other training click here
3. Language Guides: Available in English and other languages. To view language guides click here
4. Trainer Guides: Developed to encourage other training providers to deliver training. These guides are also available in accessible formats.

The program is available in various public libraries around the state, such as the Monash Public Library Service in Clayton, Mount Waverley, Glen Waverley and Oakleigh. A full list of participating libraries can be found here.