One-third of Australian residents aged 55 and above are lonely and socially isolated. To combat this silent health danger, the Federal Government has implemented the Seniors Connected Program. This national initiative funds community “Village Hubs” and digital-literacy courses, enabling older adults to stay engaged, connected, and confident online. Below is a general description of how the program works, what you qualify for, and how Advance Care Agency can help you take advantage of what’s available.
1. Why the Program Exists
1. Health and Well-being: With chronic loneliness, things set in that could also be depression, heart disease and dementia.
2. Age-Friendly Communities: Being socially active keeps a person independent longer as they age into higher
3. Digital Inclusion: With banking, health services, and general social life all being put online, digital confidence is almost a prerequisite.
2. Two Pillars of Seniors Connected
Stream What it Offers, Who Can Join? Routine Activities
Village Hubs Local, member-led centres financed to run social, cultural and physical programs. The target group is older Australians above 55 years and First Nations people above 50 years. These free activities include coffee groups, exercise classes, craft activities, day trips and volunteer work.
Be Connected offers Free digital literacy training in courses about how to use the internet. Anyone 50+ keen to boost online skills. Setting up email, video calling, internet safety, and smartphone basics.
3. Eligibility & Cost
1. Age: 55+ (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples).
2. Location: Live near a funded Village Hub or a community partner delivering Be Connected sessions.
3. Cost: Program activities are usually free; some Hubs may charge a small membership or activity fee to cover materials. No NDIS or Home-Care Package funding is required to participate.
4. Benefits You Can Expect
1. Stronger social networks: make new friends in a welcoming, age-friendly space.
2. Better physical health: group walks, tai chi and movement classes to keep you active.
3. Digital confidence: Online banking, MyGov, watching films and staying in touch with friends and family.
4. Local volunteer efforts: Pay it forward, and contribute your skills.
5. Peace of mind for families: ordinary social contact reduces the risk of health issues associated with loneliness.
5. How to Get Involved
1. Find a Village Hub near you via the Department of Social Services or community listings.
2. Join a Be Connected session at your local library, neighbourhood centre or online.
3. Contact Advance Care Agency—we can make referrals, arrange transport through your Home-Care Package or NDIS Core funding, and even host Be Connected workshops in community centres.
6. Advance Care Agency: Your Connection Partner
1. Free referrals to the closest Hub or digital-skills class.
2. Transport & support workers to accompany you, billed to existing care packages.
3. On-site digital workshops run by qualified trainers and peer mentors.
4. Social calendars that blend Village Hub events with our community outings—so your week is always whole.
Ready to Get Connected?
If you want to develop new friendships, build confidence while standing in front of a computer, or want something extra to brighten up your week, the Seniors Connected Program is an excellent (and free) place to start. Visit the Advance Care Agency and let our friendly team connect you with the Hub or Be Connected group that’s right for you.
