[LINK] Seniors broadband scheme unveiled

[Bernard Robertson-Dunn]

Seniors broadband scheme unveiled
December 1st, 2008
CeBIT Australia
http://www.gocebit.com.au/?q=news/seniors-broadband-scheme-unveiled

FAMILIES, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Minister 
Jenny Macklin has awarded a $15 million contract to NEC to provide 
broadband services to older Australians.

The Broadband for Seniors program will set up as many as 2,000 free 
Internet kiosks over the next three years in community centres and clubs 
used by senior citizens.

The Government wants more older Australians to use the internet to stay 
in touch with family and friends and to access information and services, 
Ms Macklin said in a statement.

Both pensioners and self-funded retirees will have access to the kiosks, 
which will be operated by NEC Australia in partnership with Adult 
Learning Australia, Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association, and 
the University of the Third Age Online.

The partnership harnesses the expertise of a national information 
technology company with national peak bodies for seniors.

NEC Australia will supply the broadband network reach via its Nexstep 
ISP business as well as the information communication technology and 
connectivity for the kiosks.

The Adult Learning Sector will be responsible for developing the most 
appropriate training programs for seniors using the seniors' internet 
kiosks.

The Broadband for Seniors program was budgeted for the 2008-09 to 
2010-11 financial years.

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Regards
brd

Bernard Robertson-Dunn
Canberra Australia
brd at iimetro.com.au