The eSafety Commissioner has launched a new course, through its Be Connected initiative, that assists older Australians accessing goods and services online, which is especially important during the pandemic.
The Introduction to buying and selling online course comes as new eSafety research found only 7% of older Australians aged between 50 to 65 years bought groceries or shopped online during COVID-19 restrictions earlier this year.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said research also shows more than half of older Australians are concerned about their banking details being stolen when they are making an online purchase.
“While COVID-19 is a risk factor, older Australians are thinking about how to stay connected while physical distancing,” she said. “This course will help them be able to do their shopping from home and reduce their exposure to the virus.
“At a time when the economy is heavily impacted by the necessary restrictions, assisting more seniors to shop online will help them access the essentials they need, while supporting their favourite local stores and regional producers.”
In addition to introducing well-known online retailers and marketplaces, the new course shows older Australians how to set up payment accounts so they can keep their details safe.
“The launch of the course is especially relevant during Scams Awareness Week 2020 when the public is being encouraged to keep their personal information safe online,” Inman Grant said.
Later this year, older Australians can also participate in an engaging and free webinar, Safer online shopping and banking, helping seniors take advantage of all the convenience and cost savings of buying, selling and managing their money online.
The Be Connected program is an Australian government initiative committed to improving the online confidence, skills and safety of seniors. For more details, please visit beconnected.esafety.gov.au