Digital inclusion for CALD communities

Research shows that culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) new migrants and refugees are more likely to be digitally excluded.

Many newly arrived migrants and refugees face substantial barriers to digital inclusion. Research points to a ‘digital divide’ between newly arrived communities and the rest of Australia.

The digital exclusion of many new migrants and refugees is due to multiple factors including affordable access to technology and internet connectivity, the lack of digital skills, plus language barriers.

The higher level of digital exclusion that new migrants and refugees experience significantly impacts their ability to settle into their new home and participate fully in their new communities.

The online shift to digital-only services, information and activities during COVID-19 exacerbated the digital exclusion of newly arrived migrants and refugees, creating a barrier to accessing local news and reliable information, health and government services, and causing increasing social isolation. People also increasingly need digital capability to access employment opportunities and to pursue further education.

Measures such as culturally appropriate digital mentoring and translated digital skills learning materials can help to reduce the digital divide for new migrant and refugee communities in Australia.