Digital inclusion important for refugees

Sanctuary Australia FoundationBlog, Computer Aid Program

The importance of digital inclusion for refugees

Digital inclusion is crucial for refugees arriving in Australia, as most essential activities today are conducted online.

Understanding and using digital tools early in the settlement process is vital, enabling newcomers to have easy access to the  information they need, especially with support services, and to learn and connect with others, such as well as family overseas. The Community Welcome Program demonstrates how technology can significantly improve settlement outcomes and foster community connections.

According to a study by the University of Western Sydney, ‘refugee households were less likely than other households to have laptops, desktops and digital tablets.’ 

 Early digital access helps refugees in many important ways –

  • Access Essential Services: From healthcare and housing to education and employment, most services require online interaction.
  • Stay Connected: Digital tools help refugees maintain contact with loved ones overseas and build local networks.
  • Learn New Skills: Digital literacy empowers refugees to develop skills for the workplace and community participation.
  • Navigate Australian Systems: Early familiarity with technology ensures smoother integration into society, from accessing MyGov to understanding public transport systems.

The Power of Community Support

Sanctuary’s Community Welcome Program is supported by a generous grant from the Sisters of Charity

This funding enables us to provide newly arrived refugee families in the Coffs Harbour area with good refurbished laptops donated by local organizations like ETC Employment and Training, and other city based corporate supporters. 

It also has the great added benefit of saving hundreds of devices from landfill, helping to protect our precious environment !

While access to technology is vital, nothing replaces the kindness and welcoming attitudes of local communities. 

A supportive environment, combined with digital resources, can help refugees feel part of their new community sooner, and help them to rebuild their lives again, after enduring great trauma and loss due  war.

How you can help

If you have computer repair or other technology skills we would like to hear from you. Also, we appreciate volunteers that can help with assisting refugees in learning how to use their computers, when they first receive them.

We accept donations of good quality working laptops but unfortunately cannot accept donations of desktop computers due to storage challenges.

Conclusion

Digital inclusion is not just about technology—it’s about opportunity, connection, and belonging. For refugees arriving in Australia, having access to digital tools and literacy is vital for navigating a new country and building a future. Together, through programs like the Community Welcome Program and community partnerships, we can ensure refugees have the support they need to succeed.

Working together we can make digital inclusion a reality for all.

If you are a company and have good quality laptops to donate, please get in contact via our contact page.