Get Online Week 2026: get online, get AI-ready

This week (19–25 October), more than 500 free Get Online Week events are taking place in libraries, community centres, workplaces and online across Australia. Led by Good Things Australia, the annual campaign helps people build the skills and confidence to participate online. 

As this year's AI Inclusion Partner, the National AI Centre is proud to support the initiative and help more Australians build the skills and confidence to engage with AI. 
 
This year, AI literacy is a key focus for the program. As AI becomes part of everyday life and work, AI literacy is becoming an important part of digital literacy. That's why this year's program includes opportunities for people to learn about AI in practical, accessible ways through trusted community organisations. 

For the one in five Australians who are digitally excluded, keeping up with changing technology is not straightforward. Many people lack the skills, confidence or affordable access they need to get online. 

Digital inclusion is the foundation for AI inclusion. People need access and basic digital skills before they can benefit from AI or make informed choices about using it. 

AI is already showing up in the tools we use every day: search engines, email filters, phone assistants and customer service chatbots. Understanding how these tools work can help people decide when to use them, what to trust and how to protect their information. 

Through Get Online Week, trusted community organisations provide  free learning opportunities for people who might otherwise miss out, including older Australians, people with disability, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.  

These trusted community spaces provide a safe and accessible place for people to learn in a supportive environment.  

It's a practical example of the National AI Plan in action, helping ensure the benefits of AI are accessible to all Australians. 

Whether you run a small business, work in a not-for-profit, or just want to help someone in your life feel more confident online, there are simple ways to take part: 

• Attend a free event. Find one near you using the Get Online Week events calendar 
• Spread the word. Tell your team, your clients or your community about Get Online Week 
• Use the free resources. Good Things Australia offers free learning materials you can access anytime, including resources about AI. 

You don't need to be a tech expert. You just need to be curious. Get Online Week is a chance to ask questions, try something new and build the skills that matter for work, for life and for keeping up with a fast-changing world. 

Find an event or explore free resources at www.goodthingsaustralia.org/get-online-week.