Education
K – 12
If you are learning away from school, for medical (or other approved reasons) and you have issues with access, data or hardware – please contact your school as a first step. Schools are the best place for help with digital access for learning from home. For more advice from the NSW Education of Department around learning from home, visit this website.
Tertiary
If you are learning at TAFE or University and need help with digital access or technology, contact Student Services to find out what help is available.
Community College
Community Colleges specialise in offering free and subsidised courses in computer use and digital literacy:
Westerly's partner, Macquarie Community College has these courses available in Mount Druitt.
To locate a community college in Western Sydney, click here, then go to the map and put in your postcode to find a college near you
Hardware/Software
You might have a smart phone but it is hard to read or learn on. You might have an old computer—and it is not working properly. If you don’t have the right tools to stay online—you can get help here:
Work Ventures has a cheap computer purchasing program.
You may use Centrepay to purchase items from Work Ventures.
There are other services offering reduced price computers including:
If you are receiving casework assistance or are a client of a particular service or program—ask them about your options. They may have further suggestions for technology that you can access.
CHECK: Most hardware suppliers will ensure that devices come with basic software installed. When you buy/borrow your learning device (computer, tablet)—ensure it has the basic features you need.
Data + Internet Access
Data can be expensive.
Check out ACCAN’s Talking Telcos webpage. Here, you can find information that can help you save money on phone and internet, and tell you what to do when you have a problem with your connection.
ACCAN also has information on the range of subsidised, temporary programs which can support some low-income families to access cheap data.
If you are receiving casework assistance or are a client of a particular service or program—ask them about your options. They may be able to help you access this information.
Digital Tech Support
For general advice on getting connected:
Go to BeConnected learning portal by eSafety.
For mentorship and training:
Do you need help using your device and/or the internet?
- Find someone who can help you with online learning and computer literacy.
- Get help—If you would like to sign up for a mentor—contact Leep 1300 163 106
- To boost your digital literacy—why not return to study?
TAFE Digital Skills Short Course
CAN YOU HELP OTHERS?
Do you know a lot about computers and the internet and how to use them?
Volunteer to become a Tech Mate in your area and help people get online and stay online here.
Local Organisations
Who Can Help
GET IN TOUCH
Mount Druitt/Blacktown
Bidwill Uniting
Fairfield
Think+Do Tank Foundation
can assist with connection to free NBN (School Student Broadband Initiative) and broker access to devices.
Libraries across Blacktown, Fairfield and Liverpool all provide programs and online access. Contact your local library to see what's available near you!
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