Affordability
Affordability is a key barrier to digital inclusion
Getting online requires two things: a device that works well, whether that’s a mobile device or a computer, and an internet connection. For many people, these may be simply too expensive. Even an everyday device like a smartphone can cost many hundreds of dollars along with monthly internet costs and connection fees.
Improving the affordability of access and devices for people in the community is a key focus area of the WA Digital Inclusion Project.
There are two initiatives that fall under the area of Affordability:
Initiative 6
Provide affordable devices in a pilot program with 500 social housing residents.
Initiative 7
Train 150 financial counsellors to support 1,000 people to choose a digital solution that is affordable and the best fit for them.
Initiative 6: Provide 500 affordable devices in a pilot with social housing residents.
Initiative 7: Train 150 financial counsellors to support 1,000 people to choose a digital solution that is affordable and the best fit for them.
Many members of the community face difficulties in managing daily financial decisions – especially people on lower incomes or income support payments. These financial barriers can lead to digital exclusion. Initiative 7 aims to improve training and resources for financial counsellors so they can support clients to manage the costs of getting online.