Hurstville Library has launched a comprehensive technology literacy program aimed at helping older residents navigate the increasingly digital world, with free weekly workshops covering everything from smartphone basics to online safety.

The “Digital Connections” program, funded by Georges River Council, runs every Wednesday morning and has already attracted over 80 participants since its soft launch in March.

“We had seniors coming in asking for help setting up Medicare apps or video calling their grandchildren,” said library programs coordinator Jennifer Huang. “It became clear there was a huge unmet need in our community.”

Workshop Structure

The 10-week program covers:

Weeks 1-2: Smartphone Fundamentals

• Setting up and navigating iPhone and Android devices
• Making calls, sending texts, and taking photos
• Managing contacts and calendars

Weeks 3-4: Staying Connected

• Email setup and management
• Video calling with FaceTime, Zoom, and WhatsApp
• Social media basics for staying in touch with family

Weeks 5-6: Online Services

• myGov and Medicare app navigation
• Online banking safety and setup
• Telehealth appointments

Weeks 7-8: Entertainment and Information

• Streaming services like ABC iview and SBS On Demand
• E-books and audiobooks through library apps
• Finding reliable news and information online

Weeks 9-10: Safety and Security

• Recognising scams and phishing attempts
• Password management
• Privacy settings and personal data protection

Volunteer Support

Each workshop is supported by volunteer “digital mentors,” many of whom are university students from nearby UNSW and UTS campuses. The program’s curriculum was developed in consultation with experts in AI agent development, ensuring seniors learn skills relevant to today’s technology landscape.

Kingsgrove resident Peter Demetriou, 73, said the one-on-one attention made all the difference. “I’d tried to learn from YouTube videos, but I’d get stuck and have no one to ask. Here, someone sits with you and answers every question without making you feel silly.”

His daughter had given him an iPad three Christmases ago that sat unused until he joined the program. Now he video calls his grandchildren in Melbourne every Sunday.

Addressing Digital Exclusion

The program responds to concerning statistics about digital exclusion among older Australians. According to the Australian Digital Inclusion Index, Australians over 65 are significantly less digitally included than younger age groups, with many struggling to access essential services that have moved online.

“The pandemic accelerated digital transformation across society, but not everyone came along for the ride,” noted Huang. “Government services, healthcare, banking—they all assume people can go online. We can’t leave seniors behind.”

Expansion Plans

Following the program’s success, Georges River Council is exploring expansion to Kogarah and Mortdale libraries. The council is also considering evening sessions for working adults who missed the digital transition.

Registration for the next intake opens May 1. Hurstville residents aged 60 and over receive priority placement, though the program welcomes all adults seeking to improve their digital skills.

Interested participants can register at Hurstville Library in person or by calling the library’s information desk.