In a move that reflects Australia’s growing commitment to digital inclusion for older citizens, the federal government will introduce a $250 Technology Rebate for eligible pensioners from January 2025. The initiative, officially titled the Digital Access Rebate for Seniors, aims to boost digital connectivity and help pensioners access essential government and financial services online.

This rebate comes as part of a broader 2025–26 budget initiative intended to bridge Australia’s “digital divide” by enabling older people to afford up-to-date devices, internet subscriptions, and basic tech training.

Purpose of the $250 Technology Rebate

The $250 technology payment is designed to help older Australians purchase or upgrade computers, tablets, smartphones, or assistive devices needed for digital communication. Officials emphasised that as more government and financial services shift online, ensuring digital access for seniors is no longer optional but essential.

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth stated that the rebate aims to “ensure no pensioner is left disconnected or unable to access online services that matter for daily life.”

The rebate will also complement existing programs—such as Be Connected, Tech Savvy Seniors, and Digital Skills for Older Australians—which train pensioners to safely use the internet, manage health and banking services online, and communicate digitally with family and friends.

How the Rebate Will Work

Unlike energy or cost-of-living credits applied directly to household accounts, the Technology Rebate will be a claim-based payment through Services Australia. Eligible pensioners can be reimbursed up to $250 for approved technology expenses made between 1 January 2025 and 30 June 2026.

Reimbursable expenses include:

• Purchase of laptops, tablets, or smartphones (new or refurbished)
• Internet or broadband setup fees
• Computer accessories such as webcams or headsets used for digital communication
• Subscription or training fees for recognised digital literacy courses

Claims will open on 15 January 2025 through the myGov portal, requiring applicants to submit proof of purchase and a valid pensioner concession or health care card.

Eligibility Criteria

The $250 Technology Rebate applies to recipients of major Commonwealth pensions and related payments, including:

• Age Pension
• Carer Payment
• Disability Support Pension
• Veterans’ Service Pension
• Holders of a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card

Applicants must be permanent residents of Australia and aged over 65 (or 60 for certain veteran recipients). Each eligible household can claim the rebate once during the 18-month period, regardless of how many devices are purchased.

Households that already receive state-based digital assistance or device vouchers may still qualify for the national rebate, provided they do not exceed the $250 cap.

Application Process

Services Australia will manage all applications via the digital Rebate Claims Portal, accessible through MyGov. Seniors who prefer paper-based or telephone support can lodge claims through Centrelink service centres or call the Digital Access Helpline.

The process requires:

1. Proof of purchase dated after 1 January 2025 (such as receipt or invoice)
2. Confirmation of pension or health card eligibility at the time of purchase
3. A short declaration verifying the purchase supports access to essential online services

Successful applicants will receive the $250 reimbursement directly into their nominated bank account within four to six weeks of approval.

Why the Rebate Matters

According to government research, nearly 28% of Australians aged over 65 remain without reliable access to digital devices or the internet. Many elderly residents report avoiding online platforms because of affordability concerns or device complexity.

As banking, Medicare, and Centrelink services continue moving online, these gaps increasingly limit independence and participation for older Australians. The rebate, alongside training programs, is intended to make digital participation practical and affordable.

Economists expect the initiative to indirectly support rural and regional communities, where seniors frequently face the twin challenges of limited broadband and higher device costs. The government is simultaneously investing $60 million into improved regional internet access, ensuring the rebate yields lasting value.

Overlap with State and Territory Programs

Several states already run digital inclusion initiatives for seniors:

• New South Wales: Tech Savvy Seniors program offers free digital literacy workshops.
• Victoria: The Digital Skills for Seniors initiative helps older users adapt to online services.
• Queensland: Community Digital Support Grants enable local councils to run technology workshops.

The new $250 federal rebate will align with these local efforts, meaning pensioners can often use federal and state benefits together, especially if attending accredited training sessions or purchasing essential devices.

Safeguards and Support Measures

To prevent fraud and confusion, the Department of Social Services will coordinate with retailers to ensure compliant transactions. Only Australian-registered vendors or service providers will be accepted for reimbursement claims.

The government also plans an awareness campaign to educate pensioners about avoiding online scams, strengthening privacy settings, and safely managing online government accounts.

Community organisations and libraries will play a key role by helping seniors upload receipts, use MyGov, and file claims. The Be Connected Network, which already operates through over 3,000 local organisations, will serve as a first point of contact for pensioners seeking technology purchase advice.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Digital Assistance

The $250 Technology Rebate is part of a wider national effort to integrate seniors into a rapidly evolving digital economy. Officials are already considering an ongoing Digital Access Allowance, potentially delivering smaller annual credits beyond 2026 to sustain affordability of connectivity plans and device maintenance.

By combining short-term financial help with long-term skill development, the initiative hopes to make digital independence a realistic goal for every Australian pensioner within the next decade.

Key Takeaway

The $250 Technology Rebate for Pensioners in 2025 is more than a one-off payment—it represents a broader shift toward ensuring seniors stay connected, empowered, and confident in Australia’s digital future. Eligible pensioners are encouraged to prepare their receipts early, explore free training options, and take full advantage of this valuable national program promoting digital inclusion for all.