UPDATE: An urgent initiative is underway as The Smith Family announces the distribution of 10,000 refurbished laptops to students across Australia, addressing the critical digital divide that locks many young people out of educational opportunities. This program comes as students like Skye, a year 10 student from southwestern Sydney, struggle to keep up with their peers without access to essential technology.
Skye faced a tough choice each Thursday night: attend scouts or finish her homework. Limited access to computers meant she often had to rely on her phone for assignments. “I didn’t really have any technology,” Skye shared. Her mother, Elaine, watched her daughter struggle with online submissions and assessments, stating, “Without the access of a computer, she was finding it difficult.”
Thanks to a laptop from The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, Skye’s situation has drastically improved. “She’s actually got two jobs from it as well as keeping up with schoolwork,” Elaine says. “Without the laptop, none of it would have been possible.” Skye agrees, noting, “It is easier to do assessments. It just makes life a little bit easier.”
Doug Taylor, CEO of The Smith Family, emphasizes the necessity of digital access in education, stating, “A digitally-connected laptop is exactly like the pen of yesteryear. Without one, young people are being locked out of opportunity.” He further warns that digital exclusion is becoming “the new frontier of poverty,” especially with the rise of artificial intelligence in education and job markets.
In partnership with WorkVentures, The Smith Family has been providing refurbished laptops since COVID-19, highlighting that access to technology is now essential for education and employment. “It’s essential for education, employment, and social connection,” says Caroline McDaid, CEO of WorkVentures.
Alarming statistics reveal that 44% of students supported by The Smith Family lack access to a connected laptop at home. This translates to roughly 400,000 children across Australia. Meanwhile, two million devices are replaced by governments and businesses every year, many still functional and ready for use.
Parents are noticing the positive impact; a survey found that 93% of parents reported improvements in their child’s learning after receiving a laptop. Elaine urges corporate involvement, stating, “Please donate to kids that need it more, instead of throwing laptops into landfill.”
In a significant boost, the Telstra Foundation has pledged $3.27 million, including $500,000 annually for five years starting in 2026 and an immediate contribution of $770,000. They also plan to donate 1,000 laptops this year and an additional 8,300 over the next five years.
The Smith Family aims to deliver 21,500 laptops in the same period, calling on more businesses to take part. “If your company refreshes laptop fleets, you can change a student’s school journey for life,” states Jackie Coates, CEO of The Smith Family.
This appeal is not just about homework; it’s about equipping students with vital digital skills for future opportunities. As Taylor puts it, “It’s a really compelling opportunity for businesses.”
The push for donations and corporate partnerships is critical now more than ever as students like Skye strive for success in an increasingly digital world.
