Frankston RSL is helping older members build their confidence and digital skills through a new initiative in partnership with Lively and the Good Things Foundation. The program, which began in March, offers free, one-on-one technology training to help older Australians navigate the digital world with ease.

The idea for the program came from Tony Davis, one of Frankston RSL’s dedicated Wellbeing Advocate volunteers. Tony has been assisting veterans and their families with a range of wellbeing needs and noticed a recurring issue among older members — many were struggling with their phones, iPads, and laptops.

Tony was inspired after attending a training session at a local library run by Lively, an organisation that pairs specially trained young people (aged 18–25) with older residents to provide friendly and respectful tech support.

“Lively’s Community Tech Help program offers friendly tech help for older residents, delivered by specially-trained young Helpers (aged 18–25) to be a warm and respectful guide to the online world,” Tony said.

Seeing the potential to make a real difference, Frankston RSL applied for a grant through the Good Things Foundation to bring the BeConnected program to the club. The BeConnectedinitiative focuses on increasing the confidence, skills, and online safety of older Australians by offering free local support and access to a wide range of online learning resources.

“BeConnected empowers older Australians to build their digital skills through free local support and a huge library of online learning opportunities,” the Good Things Foundation states. “Our program helps older Australians learn to avoid scams, use smartphones, and master essential digital skills.”

Every Thursday throughout March, three Lively trainers have been attending Frankston RSL from 10 am to 1 pm, providing personalised tech assistance in a relaxed and comfortable setting. So far, up to 15 members have participated, with some receiving up to three training sessions.

The trainers have helped participants with a range of everyday tasks, including setting up email, attaching and sending photos, sending text messages, and adjusting device settings. The one-on-one support allows participants to learn at their own pace, and trainers even provide written notes so members can continue practicing at home.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Members have reported increased confidence in using their devices and greater independence in handling everyday tech tasks.

This initiative highlights the power of community partnerships and the importance of equipping older Australians with the skills they need to stay connected in an increasingly digital world. Frankston RSL is proud to support its members on this journey, helping them feel more comfortable and capable with technology.