The Seniors Information Service has an internet lounge located on the ground floor at 76 Waymouth Street, Adelaide. It's free, for people over 50 and is available between 10am and 4pm, Tuesday to Friday. Individual sessions have a maximum of 2 hours. Visitors have access to a broadband (fast) internet connection, Microsoft Word and Excel and colour printing. Bookings are preferred though not essential. Contact SIS on 8168 8776.
Computer training
Seniors Information Service Offer informal support, via experienced volunteers, in the use of internet and email at their internet lounge at 76 Waymouth Street, Adelaide. Please call us on 8168 8776 to ensure volunteer availability.
Many libraries and community centres hold courses in various aspects of using computers. To find out what courses are available in your local area, contact your local council.
Computer clubs and internet access
Computer clubs and user groups generally meet in suburban community centres, libraries and at local councils. Many of these entities also provide free internet access to local residents, particularly libraries.
Broadband for Seniors An Australian Government initiative providing free internet access and training for seniors, via internet kiosks hosted by various community organisations.
Local councils Provide information on what’s available in a particular area.
Internet Cafes charge for the time you spend on the internet. They can be found listed in the yellow pages.
Discount home computer hardware schemes for seniors
There are a few organisations in SA who, with the help of volunteers, recycle used and donated computers for resale to eligible members of the public.
Digital Depot Anglicare’s computer recycling depot offers reconditioned computers with full software to low income families, schools and not-for-profit groups.
IT Share IT Share sees a way to use computers and parts that might otherwise be discarded; ITShare accepts donations of appropriate hardware, refurbishes machines, installs free software, and spreads the advantages of computers at low cost to people who would not otherwise be able to afford a computer.
PC Recyclers Addressing the needs of people without access to computers and extending the life of personal computers by relocating them to individuals and organisations in need.
Discount home internet access for seniors
ONEseniors is an Internet Service Provider that provides a low-cost dial-up and also broadband connection for people aged over 55 in receipt of a Disability Support Pension, DVA Entitlement Card or an Aged Pension. Tel. 1300 735 439 (local call cost).
Broadband internet, though more expensive than dial-up, offers numerous advantages including speed, ease of use and the ability to share a single phone line simultaneously with your telephone. Good deals can be found by shopping around and don’t forget to mention your Seniors Card.
Whirlpool Broadband information, advice and complete lists of Internet service providers.
Online shopping, banking and general internet safety
Forewarned is forearmed when it comes to avoiding problems, particularly of a financial nature, on the internet. The following sites offer sound advice on good internet practice.
Australian Bankers Association The ABA plays an active role in the public dialogue on banking and financial services, providing commentary on broader industry issues and facilitating access to other sources of information.
While mobile phones are extremely useful, it is important to be aware of the financial and contractual arrangements you are entering into. Contracts are legally binding and can be expensive to cancel before the full term has expired.
