Hervey Bay bridges the digital divide in Seniors’ Week

This Seniors Week, Hervey Bay seniors are breaking stereotypes by jumping on board the digital evolution of government service delivery.

Minister for Human Services Senator the Hon Marise Payne and Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt today visited the Hervey Bay Service Centre to observe new ways for older Australians to connect with the Department of Human Services.

“The theme of this year’s Queensland Seniors Week is ‘on for young and old’ and while many people may think online services are just for the young, many seniors are in fact internet savvy and taking up our digital service options,” Minister Payne said.

“Hervey Bay seniors have joined over 63,000 older Australians nationally who use the Department of Human Services Express Plus mobile apps to manage their government business.

“Seniors now expect to have more control over the way they interact with government services and staff at the new Hervey Bay one-stop shop can help seniors connect to the department digitally.

“Customers see the benefits of going digital and want to know how to be part of the evolution – our Hervey Bay staff can show local seniors ways to do their government business anywhere, anytime.”

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said providing access to a range of services under the one roof at Hervey Bay’s one-shop-stop has multiple benefits for the community.

“Older Australians are discovering the benefits of using online and digital services to complete their business at a time and place that suits them – either at home, while travelling or at the doctors’ surgery,” Mr Pitt said.

“While these technologies are making business much more convenient, staff will always be available at the Hervey Bay one-stop shop to provide face-to-face services to those who require more personalised or intensive support.”

The Hervey Bay one-stop shop is located at 6 Hunter Street and is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.

Media contacts:

Minister Payne’s Office: Henry Budd 0429 531 143

Mr Pitt’s Office: Debbie Leis 0419 535 722