The NSW Government’s Tech Savvy Seniors program is celebrating a decade of helping local seniors dive into the digital world with confidence.

Member for Ku-ring-gai Alister Henskens SC said more than 119,000 seniors throughout NSW have mastered their computer skills through the program since its inception in 2012.

“By building knowledge, skills and confidence through this program, local seniors have gone on to thrive in our digital world – from managing their banking online to watching videos of their grandchildren on social media,” Mr Henskens said.

“The Tech Savvy Seniors program has been fantastic at unlocking the benefits that come with being online for our older community members.”

The Tech Savvy Seniors program is a partnership between the NSW Government and Telstra, providing free or low-cost technology training to seniors through public libraries and community colleges.

The program caters to a variety of different languages and offers a range of lessons in mobile phone use, internet use, email, tablets, and details on how to be safe online.

“It is fantastic that public libraries across the Ku-ring-gai Electorate are helping seniors stay connected in our digital world,” Mr Henskens said.

“I encourage seniors to attend these worthwhile sessions—it is also fun and an opportunity to get together with others in your community.”

The program continues to benefit seniors by increasing independence, increasing their use of online services, enhancing their social connectedness, providing greater ability to pursue hobbies and interests, and increasing self-esteem and confidence.

Seniors wishing to participate can visit https://www.telstra.com.au/tech-savvy-seniors to find out more.