BFS Kiosk Launch at the Melbourne Legacy Club

What a win for everyone.

The Hon. Jenny Macklin MP, Minister of Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs launched the first Broadband for Seniors kiosk at the Melbourne Legacy Club on 3 September. Stars of the Launch included two seniors who will be using the kiosk - May, aged 103, and Pauline, aged 86. May is looking forward to learning about the internet and what it can offer her while Pauline will be one of the volunteer tutors assisting at the kiosk.

The Australian Government's Broadband for Seniors initiative involves the setup of 2000 kiosks around the country over the next three years worth $15 million. Each kiosk consists of two computers with broadband access, desks and chairs for the students and tutor. The kiosks are designed to provide free access to computers, broadband services and training to seniors. This will help seniors stay in touch with friends and family. The kiosks will allow seniors to send and receive emails, swap files and photos and meet with other seniors who are venturing on to the internet for the first time.

The sun-filled function room at Legacy House on Swanston Street held a welcoming group for the Launch and a new kiosk, but also a wonderful morning tea and fresh bouquets of flowers. Legacy House is an ideal kiosk location because seniors have access to the computers, tutors and broadband in safe environment. Legacy enhances the lives of widows and children of Defense Force by providing support, companionship and welfare, advocating their rights of entitlements, assisting families through bereavement and helping legatees thrive despite their loss.

Adult Learning Australia is working closely with NEC Australia, the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association and the University of the Third Age Online to provide a complete delivery, training and support service to the kiosks. Over the next three years 2000 kiosks will be coming online around Australia. If you know of a community organisation which supports seniors that may be interested in hosting a kiosk please visit www.necseniors.net.au or ring the hotline on 1300 795 897.

	May and Pauline sharing a joke with The Hon. Jenny Macklin, MP.
	Graeme Standish, President, Melbourne Legacy Club
	The Hon. Jenny Macklin MP’s speech of congratulations mentioned by having computer access seniors can talk to people across the street, or across the world.