A digital literacy program helping older Australians boost their online skills will be extended for another four years.
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The Albanese government will on Friday announce a $42 million boost to the Be Connected program.
It supports people over the age of 50 with free digital literacy training and access to devices, allowing them to safely use technology.
The investment will extend the program through to 2028, from its previous end date of mid-2024.
Under the funding, an additional 300,000 older people will be helped through almost 4000 community organisations.
The program aims to educate Australians about how to access essential services online, including net banking, shopping, telehealth and government services.
Secondary school students have been enlisted to act as young mentors to the program participants.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said targeted digital literacy support programs for older Australians were crucial, as society became increasingly reliant on technology.
"Technology changes so rapidly, it is vital that no-one is excluded," Ms Rishworth said.
"Increasing digital literacy can also help people feel more connected.
"Social media can help Australians to stay in touch with friends and loved ones who may live far away, reducing loneliness and isolation."
Support will become available across the country as the government works with libraries, community groups, retirement villages and aged care facilities.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the program would narrow the digital divide.
"The young mentors in particular is helping connect Australians of different ages to build their digital skills and confidence, and encourage genuine connections across generations," she said.
The program was built on the success of an earlier initiative helping older people with digital skills, which was then replaced in 2017.
More than 470,000 people have benefited from the Be Connected program.
Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones said Australians needed help in learning to protect themselves against scams.
Australia's consumer watchdog last year found people aged over 45 lost more than $300 million to scammers.
"These figures are staggering," Mr Jones said.
"Australians who are digitally literate, alert and educated to the risk of scams will be make them less attractive targets to scammers."
Australian Associated Press
