Access to technology, and in particular the internet, has without question become an essential service for everyone living in Australia. Technology enables people to find employment, access government services and participate in education.
However, many people living on low incomes are experiencing affordability barriers when it comes to accessing technology. Unfortunately, these barriers are impacting on our children in Australia with a recent ACOSS report saying that children from disadvantaged communities are 20 percent less likely to access the internet than kids in more advantaged areas.
As a mother, this is highly disturbing.
Even in my son’s first year of school, owning a laptop or tablet and having internet access was really important.
That’s right technology education starts in prep and kids are given a login and password to do online maths programs at home. While the program’s not compulsory, the kids love it because they can see their friends online and complete the activities at the same time.
At Good Shepherd Microfinance, we’re hearing the stories of families who are already stretching to pay for books, uniforms, stationary and excursions. Today, there is even more pressure to provide them with a laptop or tablet. Let’s face it, technology is an essential part of a 21st century education.
Last year, almost 10 per cent of loans through our No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) where used to buy computers, laptops and tablets. We need schools, retailers and telcos to be champions of initiatives like NILS so that more families on low incomes are aware of safe, fair and affordable finance options to cover educational expenses. With the Schoolkid’s Bonus ending in July 2016, this is only going to become a bigger issue for many families.
I can’t imagine what it would have been like, if my son wasn’t able to access technology to learn about maths online with his classmates.
Affordability shouldn’t be a deciding factor in whether a child can achieve their potential at school. Let’s make sure the ‘digital divide’ isn’t leaving our kids behind.
