Be Connected - helping older Australians learn about technology

Be connected is a free and trusted Australian government initiative that helps older Australians build the digital skills and confidence they need to use everyday technology.

We offer free short online courses, step-by-step videos, printable tip sheets, as well as free in-person support delivered through a network of community organisations across Australia.

With Be Connected, you'll learn practical digital skills like using the internet, your smartphone, computer or tablet, navigating government services like myGov, staying safe online, and more.

Our purpose is to help everyone feel more confident using everyday technology to stay connected with family, friends, services, and their community.

Learn digital skills at your own pace

Be Connected is designed for beginners and intermediates alike. Whether you’re just getting started with a computer or smartphone or want to refresh your skills, you can learn at your own pace – for free.

Our learning resources are easy to follow, so you can start at the very beginning with our computer basics or choose topics that are most relevant to you.

What you can learn with Be Connected

Be Connected covers a range of topics, including:

• Smartphones, computers, and tablets – getting started and everyday use
  
• Staying connected with email, video calls (Zoom, FaceTime), and social media
  
• Government services - setting up and linking myGov
• Online banking - practise everyday banking tasks in our pretend online bank
• Creating and managing strong passwords to protect your online accounts
  
• Online safety and avoiding scams – how to spot scams and protect your personal information.
  

All our learning content is designed with older people in mind and focuses on real-world situations.

In-person support

While the Be Connected website focuses on building digital skills through online learning, we understand that some people prefer face‑to‑face support.

That’s why Be Connected works with a network of community organisations across Australia – including libraries, neighbourhood centres, and aged care facilities – that provide free face-to-face computer classes or one-on-one tech support. These local organisations offer a supportive environment where you can ask questions and learn alongside others if you so choose.

Find a computer class or tech support near you.

Is Be Connected free?

Yes, Be Connected is completely free. It provides free online courses, videos, articles, tip sheets, and resources for seniors on topics including, smartphones, the internet, online safety, myGov, and more. There are no subscription or sign-up fees.

Can I get help with my phone or computer?

Yes. Be connected offers hundreds of free learning resources to help you use your smartphone, computer or tablet – all with a strong focus on online safety. If you need in-person help with your device, you can also find face-to-face support through Be Connected’s network of community organisations across Australia.

Is Be Connected for beginners?

Yes, Be Connected is ideal for beginners. It offers step-by-step guidance through short online courses, videos, and printable tip sheets on computer basics, iPhone and Android smartphones, the internet, online safety, and more. You can start from scratch with no prior experience required.

Who delivers Be Connected?

Be Connected is a trusted Australian government initiative. The website and online learning content is delivered by the eSafety Commissioner (eSafety). The face-to-face support delivered through a network of community organisations is coordinated by Good Things Australia, a leading not-for-profit focused on digital inclusion. The program is funded by the Department of Social Services (DSS).