The City of Boroondara has been named as a finalist in the annual Australian Government Digital Awards for creating an innovative digital service with the Add Life to Your Years (Over 55's Digital Hub), as part of a suite of services being developed for Council's Customer First Program.
From a field of over 40 entrants, Boroondara will now go up against 6 other finalists for the Outstanding digital product or service award.
Commenting on the nomination, Mayor Cr Jane Addis said, "We are proud of our Council officers who have created an innovative digital service which has improved community experience".
Add Life to Your Years (Over 55's Digital Hub) was developed as a digital service in response to feedback from the community who wanted to take advantage of over 700 activities and services the City of Boroondara has to offer for older residents. The Digital Hub also helps adult children of elderly parents needing services to remain living independently in their homes, as well as staying connected with their local community.
Staying connected through programs and services, whether recreation, fitness, education or social support in local communities, has a positive impact on people's health. In contrast, social isolation, often experienced by the over 55 age group due to a range of life circumstances, is detrimental to a person's health and wellbeing.
"The Digital Hub makes it easier for users to find activities they're interested in and navigate the range of services and resources available to them across local, state and federal levels of government", said Cr Addis.
Older residents co-designed the new Digital Hub with Council officers. Eleven months after launch, there has been a 100% increase in the number of users, 157% increase in user sessions and page views jumping by 180%.
"This project is successful because of the lead role our older residents have played with the design and delivery of the Digital Hub. It is thanks to their ongoing commitment and enthusiasm, we are able to be nominated as a finalist for the awards", said Cr Addis.
