THE Intergenerational Report 2023 recently released by the Treasury provides a big picture view of the forces that will shape the nation’s economy and fiscal position over the next 40 years.

It has identified five major forces shaping Australia’s future, one of which is digitalisation.

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At a grassroots level that means those who are not computer savvy or struggle with using their mobile phone will be at a disadvantage.

The Emerald Beach-based founder of Youngster.Co Tony Rothacker shared his response to the report with News Of The Area.

According to the report, with Australians expected to live longer and the number of individuals aged 65 and over more than doubling by 2062-63, the demand for care and support services is paramount.

“Digitalisation is projected to revolutionise how we work and live,” Tony told News Of The Area.

Youngster.Co’s mission to bridge the technological gap resonates strongly with the nation’s direction, fostering tech literacy and embracing digital opportunities.

It does this through community-driven education and training.

“Through innovative on-the-job training, Youngster.Co fosters empathy, mindfulness and resilience, skills aligned with Australia’s pursuit of a more inclusive workforce.”

As our economy leans towards services, particularly care and support, Youngster.Co’s local tech support and educational initiatives fit well into the projected growth of this sector.

By committing 50 percent of the profit from the at-home tech support service to help those in need, Youngster.Co embodies the essence of social enterprise, mirroring the Government’s commitment to care and support services and creating jobs for the local youth.

“In a time when global demand for digital and care services is on the rise, our Youngster.Co service is turning nationwide challenges into local solutions.

“Our initiatives align with the report’s goals of building workforce skills, fostering a productive economy, and broadening opportunity.”

The goals reported in the Intergenerational Report 2023 may look like a big journey to accomplish, but Tony believes Youngster.Co’s innovative response offers a beacon of hope.

“At Youngster.Co, our mission is driven by an awareness of the challenges faced by both older and younger generations.

“Youngsters today tend to spend too much time on social media and their devices, which can contribute to mental well-being issues and feelings of loneliness.

“Simultaneously, loneliness is a growing concern among seniors, often exacerbated by the digital divide.

“Our initiative seeks to address these dual challenges by connecting youngsters with older people to assist with their tech needs.

“Through this interaction, we transform technology from an isolating force into a means of connection, fostering empathy, and collaboration,” he said.

Youngsters share tech insights while learning from the seniors’ life wisdom, creating a two-way exchange that enriches both groups.

The bonds formed in the sessions promote societal cohesion and offer a supportive community where technology enhances rather than hinders human connections.

Founded and headquartered in Coffs Harbour, Youngster.Co has spread across 20 locations nationwide with over 1300 youngsters onboard.

For more information visit https://youngster.co.

By Andrea FERRARI