Netsafe And Chorus Power Up Online Safety For Older Adults

Netsafe has powered up its efforts to protect and empower older adults in Aotearoa, with the launch of twelve new resources and a dedicated digital hub for community organisations.

Unveiled today at an event in Dunedin, the new materials are the latest addition to Netsafe’s Get Set Up for Safety programme supported by Chorus, a growing collection of over 20 free, ready-to-use fact sheets, guides and interactive learning activities tailored for older adults and the people who support them. The practical tools are designed to build digital confidence and help older people stay secure online.

“We recognise that our older adult population are eager to upskill as they navigate the fast-changing digital landscape, to stay connected, manage finances and access services”, says Brent Carey, CEO of Netsafe.

“Over the last year we have seen a big demand for our initial Get Set Up for Safety resources, but it was clear that more was needed in this space to enable the many amazing community organisations supporting older adults throughout Aotearoa.”

For community organisations, volunteers and facilitators that work with older adults, the resources will provide a helpful tool to hand out or use in workshops to support learning and spark discussion.

Hannah Taylor, Head of Sustainability at Chorus, says the initiative aligns with their commitment to all aspects of digital equity, but specifically ensuring access is safe and inclusive for everyone.

“We’re proud to continue our support of a project that enables older New Zealanders to embrace the benefits of being online, while also giving those around them, families, volunteers, and community groups, the information and tools to provide meaningful support,” says Taylor, “Online safety isn’t a solo journey, and this toolkit makes it easier for communities to walk that path together.”

All resources in the suite are free to download. 

Printed materials will also be made available through trusted networks nationwide, such as Age Concern, Citizens Advice Bureaus, Digital Seniors Hubs, community libraries and other local support organisations.

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