Being Digital: empowering South Australians to thrive in a digital world

Why Digital Literacy matters 

In today’s connected world, digital skills are essential. Yet, the Australian Digital Inclusion Index (ADII) reveals around 2.5 million Australians remain highly digitally excluded. South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory have the greatest need for digital inclusion support, with some of the lowest scores on the Index.

Being Digital responds to this challenge, by delivering free, locally tailored digital literacy training through public libraries across regional South Australia. The program is designed to meet people where they are - whether they’re learning how to use a smartphone or exploring emerging technologies like AI.

A statewide effort to close the digital divide

With Telstra support, Being Digital is being delivered across 23 regional council areas, aiming to support over 4,000 South Australians to get online and stay connected to family, friends and their communities.

Training sessions cover a wide range of topics, including:

• basic device use

• email setup and use

• online safety and scam awareness

• social media privacy

• secure online shopping and banking

• emerging technologies like AI.

To drive a sustainable uplift in digital capability, train-the-trainer support will be provided in five regions with very low digital inclusion scores, helping build long-term outreach in communities with the greatest need. 

More than just tech skills

Being Digital is about more than learning how to use technology. It’s about building confidence, independence and connection. Participants report feeling more engaged with the world, more connected to family and friends and more capable of navigating everyday digital tasks. The program helps build digital resilience and supports equitable access to digital opportunities.

This program is a powerful example of what’s possible when government, industry and community come together. It’s about inclusion, opportunity and dignity in the digital age. With Telstra’s funding and LibrariesSA’s reach, we’re ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to digital literacy training. The program aligns with our broader goals of digital equity and lifelong learning for all South Australians. 
 

— Moira Jenkins, Mayor, City of Victor Harbor

Real impact, real stories

A recent participant at Moonta Library shared: “Before this, I didn’t even know how to turn on a tablet. Now I can video call my grandkids and shop online safely. It’s changed my life. The sessions were friendly and easy to follow. I didn’t feel judged and I could ask questions. I even learned how to spot scams and use voice assistants like Siri. I feel like I belong in today’s world.”

A bold commitment to digital inclusion

Being Digital is part of Telstra’s broader commitment to support the digital inclusion of 1 million Australians by FY30, with at least 200,000 of those in South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory. It’s a bold goal—and programs like Being Digital are key to achieving it.

Whether you’re new to technology or looking to build on your existing skills, Being Digital is here to help you thrive. Sessions are free, friendly and open to adults in South Australia. 

 
To learn more, contact your local library today.