Help with technology and the internet
The City of Melbourne's Healthy Ageing team coordinates programs to improve the digital skills of people aged 55 and older.
The following three digital programs are facilitated by Lively Tech Helpers and provide one-on-one or group workshops which offer help navigating mobile phones, tablet devices and computers. For referrals, partnership opportunities, eligibility and more information contact healthyageing@melbourne.vic.gov.au or phone 9658 9190.
- Tech Help for Older People Pop-up
Drop-in sessions hosted at public housing estates in Kensington, North Melbourne and Carlton. July 2023 to June 2024. - Home Tech Support Program
Four 2-hour in-home sessions are available for City of Melbourne residents. Program intake is open throughout the year. - Tech Connect
Bookable weekly sessions alternate between tech topic workshops and one-on-one support, delivered in South Yarra, North Melbourne and Kensington.
Additional tech help and support
- Book a Librarian service at one of our six library branches – free one-on-one tech support.
- Neighbourhood Houses – local community organisations who deliver a range of free and low-cost tech help, IT and beginning computer courses and sessions.
Are you thinking about buying a laptop, tablet or mobile phone but not sure where to start? The Australian Government website, Be Connected, offers a beginner's overview of different types of technology and how to use them. Find out more at Be ConnectedOpens in new tab.
A refurbished device can be an affordable and sustainable option if you are looking to purchase a computer, tablet or mobile phone. There are several not-for-profits in Australia that offer devices at competitive prices.
Work VenturesOpens in new tab is one not-for-profit and social enterprise that offers low-cost refurbished laptops and desktop computers for purchase. The purchase price includes anti-virus software, Microsoft Office and 6-months of free tech support, so you can reach out for help if you need it. They also offer interest-free instalment payments for pension or concession card holders. Free call 1800 112 205 for more information.
Computer BankOpens in new tab is a local not-for-profit organisation located in North Melbourne that offers affordable, refurbished computers for concession card holders, students, pensioners and community groups.
Choosing an internet plan and setting up home Wi-Fi can be a confusing and stressful process – but it doesn't have to be. The Be Connected websiteOpens in new tab offers advice on everything you need to know about data: what it is, the difference between home internet and mobile data, how to switch to wi-fi on your mobile, plus tips to help you save money when at home or away. Information sheets are also available for download in a range of languages. Find out more at All About DataOpens in new tab.
The internet offers a world of opportunities when it comes to staying connected, organising our daily lives and accessing information. However, it's important to be aware of the all the benefits and risks that come with it. The Australian government offers its top tips for staying safe onlineOpens in new tab, on its BeConnected website. Learn how pay safely online, create secure password and avoid scams and tricks with their simple short courses and print outs.
Hoarding
Compulsive hoarding and acquiring involves the acquisition of, and inability to discard, a vast number of possessions.
The homes of people living with hoarding are hazardous; the clutter serves as a fire hazard; individuals are at increased risk of falling, or having items fall onto them and collected waste can lead to unsanitary conditions. Consequently, people with compulsive hoarding are often too embarrassed to have people visit their homes, which can lead to reduced social interactions.
Hoarding behaviour has a strong relationship with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and it is estimated that 25 to 30 per cent of individuals diagnosed with OCD have symptoms of compulsive hoarding. It is estimated that OCD affects 1 to 3 per cent of Australians (Source: Swinburne Psychology Clinic 2019).
When this condition results in squalor or a fire hazard, others may feel compelled to act. For example, neighbours may contact police or the environmental health unit at council or ring the customer line.
There are decluttering and cleaning services that can be brought in to support the situation. However, if it’s done in an insensitive way, this may cause significant psychological distress to the person or the hoarding behaviour may simply start afresh.
For help and resources, see Hoarding Home SolutionsOpens in new tab.
Housing
Whether you’re looking into retirement housing, private rentals, or seeking information about alternative housing pathways for older people, support is available. Please reach out to the services below:
- Housing for the Aged Action Group (HAAG)Opens in new tab provides independent advice, information and practical housing support for over 50s. Phone: 1300 765 178
- Council on the Ageing (COTA)Opens in new tab Victoria is the leading not-for-profit organisation representing the interests and rights of people aged 50+ in Victoria.
City of Melbourne initiatives
Women over the age of 55 are now the fastest growing cohort of people experiencing homelessness in Australia.
To learn more about City of Melbourne’s commitment to reducing homelessness and increasing safe, secure, and affordable housing in our city, learn more about Homes Melbourne.
City of Melbourne and Homes Melbourne drew together a panel of experts to present existing and alternative pathways for those impacted by housing insecurity, as part of MPavilion’s Making Home series. To find out more, visit alternative housing pathways for older women, where you’ll find a podcast and further resources.
Helpful links
Transport
Whether you need assistance with accessing mobility aids or navigating the public transport network in the City of Melbourne, or require a regular community transport service the following links offer a starting point:
Community grants
The City of Melbourne offers many funding opportunities to support and empower people and communities to become engaged, connect and take local action. This includes the Community Meals Subsidy, which provides funding and support to community organisations to promote more opportunities for social connection for older people through food programming, while ensuring access to nutritious, safe and culturally-appropriate food. To find out more and discover other opportunities for funding support for older people, visit Community funding and grants.
