Not every Australian benefited from this digital normality. Before the pandemic, the 2019 Audit highlighted that lack of digital inclusion is an ongoing issue for many Australians. Access, affordability and the ability to use digital services are key issues across several demographics, including older Australians, people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and low-income families.
Unfortunately, some people are digitally disadvantaged because they cannot afford services or do not know how to use them. Social isolation has hit these groups particularly hard during the pandemic. This inequity needs to be addressed so everyone has reasonable support during a crisis.