Cr Les Power: Roadmap exposes digital divide

Published on 29 October 2021

One of the biggest challenges facing isolated older people in this COVID-19 digital landscape is a lack of skills and the means to access the technology that everybody else has grown up with.

Everything has gone online, including all the apps the government is releasing. That’s great for the majority of us, but there are still plenty out there who don't even know what an app is.

The Services Victoria app and its associated digital vaccination certificate is another example of the dramatic shift to online tools.

What happens to those who do not have the skills to operate the app? I hope they do not choose to simply miss out on the freedoms that the digital savvy are starting to enjoy.

I realise that there are some other ways of proving you’re vaccinated but the point is that I fear some may find it easier to remain isolated instead of getting out and about. 

I know other older people who are rejecting online shopping as they prefer the social benefits of daily face to face contact when shopping in person.

It is so important that we don't leave those vulnerable people behind.

It is really terrific to see that our COVID-19 vaccination rates continue to increase, with more than 95 per cent of eligible people over 15 having received their first dose, and just over 79 per cent of our eligible population is now fully vaccinated.

This means that there will be very few non-vaccinated people in our region and it is really heartening to see our community is doing everything it can to make lockdowns a thing of the past.

It’s great to see our streets starting to become busy again with cafes and pubs filled with people enjoying the new outdoor dining infrastructure. 

The engine room of our economy – small business – has been tested like never so I encourage everybody to get out and about and support them.

It is important that we all remain positive in these challenging times as people need hope and businesses need certainty.

Note: If you are struggling with the digital vaccination certificate process then can I suggest you get in touch with Charlie Helyar from Horsham Neighbourhood House (03) 5382 5352. He is happy to assist people if you get stuck.