Sharing the vision that no child will be left behind
March 29, 2025
A new digital and social inclusion project is providing laptops so that more Tasmanian families can support their children’s education.
Tech4Kids is a joint partnership between WorkVentures, the Tasmanian Community Fund, TasCOSS, TasNetworks, and Anglicare. Up to 1000 laptops are being distributed to families across the State whose children are in years 5-12.
Program manager Juanita Schofield represented Anglicare at the launch of the Tech4Kids project in Hobart last month.
“From my experience and from chatting with workers throughout Anglicare’s child and family programs, we know that economic hardship and a lack of access to technology often go hand in hand,” she explained. “Without a reliable device such as a laptop, children may struggle to complete homework, participate in online classes, or access digital resources that are essential for their learning.
“The digital divide creates additional challenges for children who are already facing barriers in other areas of life, such as financial instability or limited access to educational support, anxiety and other mental health issues for themselves or other family members.”
Juanita said parents put a high value on technology and education more broadly, but there was a disconnection between what the education system assumes parents should provide, versus what families can afford.
“Parents are very concerned that their children are falling further behind in literacy and maths as there is no or very limited access to quality technology at home – but paying for food, rent and other bills often has to take priority,” she said.
Juanita describes the Tech4Kids initiative as a game-changer for children and parents.
“A laptop opens up opportunities for children to improve their academic performance, stay connected with teachers and classmates, and feel more confident in their learning,” she said.
“For parents, the benefit of a laptop extends beyond their child’s education. It provides a way for families to stay connected with the world around them, from accessing online resources for health and financial support to participating in community activities.”
Frontline workers are trusted partners
Anglicare’s Community Services workers support families across the State, including in rural and remote areas and in communities where often English is a second language.
“Our frontline workers understand the unique circumstances of each child, student and family and have earned their trust,” says Juanita. “We know where the technology is needed the most, and we have the networks in place to distribute the laptops quickly.
“The free technological support provided by the Work Ventures team will set up the families up for success.
We think this program will create meaningful change. It will mean no child is left behind.
“Learning together”: Jennifer’s experience
Jennifer has five sons who attend primary and high schools in the Launceston area. The four eldest children are eligible for the Tech4Kids program and were thrilled to each receive a laptop of their own last month.
“When they heard the news the laptops were on their way they were gob-smacked – just so excited,” she said.
“The laptops are easy to use and they will be such a good tool for their education. My youngest was ineligible due to his age, but now I know that I can afford to purchase one for him myself, so we can all learn together. This will make a huge difference for us as a family.”
Jennifer was introduced to Anglicare when she signed up for its home-based, school-readiness program HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters) several years ago. She became a tutor to other families enrolled in the program, and today juggles parenting, work and study at the University of Tasmania.
“Anglicare gave me the confidence to find my feet,” she said. “I feel like I’ve come such a long way, and our future as a family is looking bright.”
More information
Tech4Kids is a digital inclusion project supported by:
For more information on the project, please contact James Ryan, Digital Inclusion Partnerships Lead Tasmania, WorkVentures, james.ryan@workventures.com.au
Anglicare’s children and family support programs
