Bracks Bridging the Digital Divide in Beaufort
Bracks Bridging the Digital Divide in Beaufort |
| Media release - 1 August 2006 |
| People looking for work in Beaufort are finding the support they need to get online at the Beaufort Community Resource Centre, the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Marsha Thomson, said today. Announcing a $7500 grant for the Centre, Ms Thomson said the organisation was one of 88 community organisations across the State to be funded through the Bracks Government's $3.5 million Public Internet Access Program (PIAP). The funding boost means that the Centre can offer new job skills computer classes, in addition to providing a place where young people and others looking for work can easily access the internet. Ms Thomson said the program was bridging the digital divide in Beaufort by involving collaboration between the local Community House and the Learning Centre, the Resource Centre, and Direct Recruitment. "PIAP is designed to bring all the benefits of the internet to a diverse range of people currently underrepresented among internet users," said Ms Thomson. "Through this initiative the Bracks Government will be funding up to half a million hours of free or affordable internet access for Victorians over the next four years. "This $7,500 grant to the Beaufort Community Resource Centre has been used to purchase new computer equipment so public internet access continues, as well as providing new classes to unemployed people." Ms Thomson said the Bracks Government's Connecting Communities policy has successfully worked to reduce barriers for Victorians who face difficulties accessing the internet. "We are also honouring our commitment to create A Fairer Victoria. We are working with local governments, communities and businesses to help remove barriers to opportunity, and provide access and choice for all Victorians," she said. for more information on the Public Internet Access Program, contact Vicnet toll free on 1800 629 835. |
