Good Things Australia’s new consumer research findings shine a spotlight on the attitudes of Australians towards getting online in 2024.
We surveyed 2,006 adults living in Australia to understand the barriers they face when accessing and using technology and the internet. With the rapid emergence of new technologies, we also investigated how they view and engage with AI.
This research provides insights into changes in consumer behaviour and views since our 2023 report, and highlights opportunities for Good Things and the broader community to close the digital divide so no one is left behind.
Infographic transcript
Keeping up with tech changes infographic:
59%: I do not feel comfortable keeping up with tech changes
25% I need help to keep up with rapid changes in technology
1 in 3: I worry what AI (Artificial Intelligence) will mean for me
1 in 5: I feel anxious when I can’t do task online by myself
Consumer research by Good Things Australia, September 2024, n = 2006
The research revealed that more than half of people in Australia do not feel comfortable keeping up with tech changes, and 1 in 4 need help to keep up.
The digital divide between those who can and can’t keep up is greater for some groups of people in Australia.
Almost three quarters (73%) of people with disability don’t feel comfortable keeping up with changes in technology and the internet, with 38% needing help to keep up with rapid changes in technology. First Nations people, women and older people all reported higher levels of discomfort in keeping up with changes in technology and the internet.
Infographic transcript
Cost of living and getting online:
1 in 2: Cost of living increases have affected my ability to get online
1 in 6: I have to choose between paying for the internet or phone bills and other essentials eg food or housing
14%: I struggle to afford my internet bill
Some struggle more than others.
Cost of living increase have affected my ability to get online:
72%: I am Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
63%: I am 18 – 24 yrs old
60%: I live with disability
49%: National average
I have to choose between between paying for the internet or phone bills and other essentials eg food or housing:
44% I am Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
29%: I live with disability
24%: I am 25-44 yrs old
17%: National average
The research also highlighted how cost of living increases are impacting people’s ability to get online. 49% are struggling to afford an appropriate internet connection or digital device, 3% higher than 2023’s results.
A slightly lower number of Australians reported needing to choose between paying for digital connections or devices and other essential household costs such as food and housing in 2024 (17% compared to 19% in 2023). But, this still sits at 1 in 6 Australians, a significant proportion of people.
Our research continues to demonstrate that the affordability of internet connections and devices disproportionately affects some demographic groups’ ability to get online more than others, including younger people, First Nations people, and people with disability.
Staying safe online and keeping loved ones safe from scams is a significant concern for all
One in five Australians are struggling to have the digital skills they need to stay safe online. 62% don’t feel confident they could spot a scam online, and half were worried scams are becoming harder to spot. One in three Australians are also worried about a loved one’s ability to spot a scam online.
The research shows that some people are also missing out on essential digital skills needed for everyday life, including scanning QR codes, using online government services, finding work online and using AI. Again, some people are struggling more than others to do these tasks, adding to the risk of them being left behind.
Rapid tech changes are impacting digital skills and confidence, as well as online safety.
What we need to do
Digital inclusion is crucial to a thriving Australian society and economy. It provides access to information, services, connections with the community and greater employment and education opportunities. Yet, this research shows that not all Australians can get online affordably, safely and confidently.
The solution requires collaboration across government, industry, philanthropy and the community sectors and the prioritisation of programs specialising and tailoring support to women, people with disability, culturally diverse communities and First Nations people.
Together with our partners, Good Things Australia advocates for digital inclusion and the importance of closing the digital divide so no one is left behind.
Read the full report
Download our full report on ‘Australian attitudes to getting online 2024’ to read more about this research and our findings.
Contact us if you need this report in alternate formats.
For media enquiries about this report, contact Linda Berrigan, Good Things on 0478 119 066.