It is becoming increasingly necessary for Australians to have access to appropriate digital devices and services to engage with society, whether to access health services, assist with schoolwork or job seeking, engage with social networks or more. However, the barriers of cost and accessibility make this difficult for many.
As a winner of the ‘Digital Innovation Award’ by the Third Sector, The Benevolent Society is proud to lead the way in enhancing digital access and inclusion through our Digital Inclusion Program.
The Digital Inclusion Program is a joint project between The Benevolent Society and Work Ventures that seeks to meet this need and improve digital service delivery and inclusion for The Benevolent Society clients by providing devices, internet connections, training and support.
Who is eligible?
- Low-income families (Benevolent Society Clients) that lack access to a computer or internet connection for adults and/or children whom would benefit from receiving laptop, internet and user support.
What is included in the offer?
- A laptop to keep with Microsoft Office Student, Antivirus Software and Content Filtering Software
- Access to a free 12-month internet plan (provided either via a mobile dongle OR, if eligible, through the School Student Broadband Initiative)
- An orientation session (conducted remotely)
- 12-month access to support line to assist with use of the laptop
- Coaching and support as required by the individual client
Find out more about the Digital Inclusion Program below!
The School Student Broadband Initiative is an Australian Government program that offers free home internet to families and carers who look after school age children, that do not have a current nbn home internet connection.
Who is eligible?
- You must be caring for a school age student at your home.
- You must be receiving services as a client of Benevolent.
- Must not have an active nbn connection at your home now or in the past 14 days. (Having a mobile internet does not affect eligibility).
- Must live in the property that can access the nbn network through a standard connection.
What is included in the offer?
- Free home internet until December 2025
- Free WI-FI router (you can keep it)
- Unlimited data
- 50 / 20 plan (this is a typical household plan)
- No lock in contracts
- Choice of participating internet providers
- Ongoing support from the National Referral Centre to apply – callback, webchat, and interpreting services available
If you are keen to know more about this program, please speak to your contact at Benevolent (Practitioner/ Client Support Partner) in the first instance.