Accessing technology and the internet can be very helpful in your healthy ageing journey, whether it’s for communicating with people, finding information about community services or keeping up to date with technology. If you’re not confident with technology, there are plenty of services that can help you learn about using your devices, improve your digital skills, use online government support services (such as Centrelink), set up home internet and stay safe online.
Keeping your digital skills up to date in the fast-changing digital world can be difficult. It’s easier to do this if you have a good understanding of the language and terms used. These glossaries are resources you can refer to when you’re learning how to use your digital devices, improve your digital skills and understand terms that aren’t familiar to you.
A glossary of online terms prepared by the government so you can understand terminology while you use the internet.
An in-depth glossary of cyber terms prepared by the government to help you understand terminology while you purchase, use and manage technology and stay safe online.
The government operates many of its key services via online platforms. Sometimes, these can be confusing to navigate, so here are some resources to support you in accessing these services and resources—without needing to line up or wait on the phone.
myGov is a secure way to access government services online, all in one place. You can access Centrelink, the Australian Taxation Office, Medicare, My Aged Care and many more government services.
A 24/7 virtual assistant that can help you with general questions about using myGov.
My Aged Care is your starting point to access government-funded aged care services. They have a range of resources and information to help you navigate the aged care system.
Information that provides advice and directs you to where you can view your My Aged Care account and manage your services.
Centrelink is a government service providing social security payments and services to Australians, including people impacted by COVID-19, unemployed people, pensioners and people in many other circumstances.
A website providing Australians with information on receiving income support, pensions and other payments from Centrelink.
You can learn more about using digital devices and improving your digital skills through social and community classes. You can contact your local library or community centre to find out what programs they have on offer. These are some examples of programs.
A free technology training program run in one-hour one-on-one sessions where you can ask as many questions as you like.
A range of free technology workshops and sessions run by the Brisbane City Council libraries for people of all ages and skill levels.
A range of free technology workshops and sessions run by the Moreton Bay Regional Libraries for people of all ages and skill levels, plus one-to-one device advice sessions. You can type your suburb in the search box to find classes and events near you.
An Australia-wide initiative empowering people to thrive in a digital world by providing online learning resources and a network of community partners who can help you develop your digital skills and confidence. Find a local place for friendly help and advice.
A computer lesson program for people aged over 50, to help you learn how to use computers, tablets and smartphones. Lessons can be undertaken in your home or at a local library, on a variety of topics. You need to pay for an annual membership to receive lessons.
A digital mentoring service for seniors who would like to build confidence using digital communications technology. Sessions are conducted weekly with a friendly volunteer, using a mix of telephone calls and screen sharing technology from the comfort of your own home.
These days the internet is central to staying connected with the community and healthy ageing services. Having home internet set up is even better, but it can be confusing. Here are some resources to help you get started. If you have already done so, you may wish to compare plans to see if you are on the right plan for your needs.
A step-by-step guide for creating a home network to connect your home entertainment, office equipment and smart appliances.
A website where you can compare the prices of the internet brands servicing your area, so you can find the right internet plan for you.
The internet is a great place to connect with people and organisations, but there can be security risks. It’s important to exercise caution, so here are some resources to help you become more aware and stay safe when using the internet.
A webpage for seniors providing information on how to use the internet securely.
A government website explaining how to report a scam.
A government website providing resources to help you identify scams, protect yourself from them and report them.
A webpage about the Queensland Police Service’s website outlining what scams are and how to protect yourself from them.
A webpage with contact information for any police needs you may have, including reporting cybercrime.
A book published by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission to help people to look out for scams and know where to find help if needed. You can download a PDF of the book or listen to the audio version.
Digital skills
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia, their diversity, histories and knowledge and their continuing connections to land, waterways and culture. We pay our respect to all Australian Indigenous Peoples and their cultures, and to Elders of past, present and future generations.
We would like to express our gratitude to all the healthy ageing advocates, including people living with dementia, older people, families, carers and health professionals, who contributed to the development of this portal. Thank you for sharing your stories and transferring your knowledge to make this portal purposeful and meaningful to support people in the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay region.