The CRC Champions Program is a grassroots digital inclusion initiative that supports regional and remote Community Resource Centres (CRCs) across Western Australia to deliver digital literacy training tailored to their local communities. Through co-design, training and ongoing collaboration, CRC staff become digital champions; trusted local figures who help community members safely and confidently engage with technology.
The program is a partnership between the participating CRCs, the WA Digital Inclusion Project, led by the WA Council of Social Service (WACOSS), the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), and Linkwest. It builds on the trusted presence of CRCs in their communities, enabling them to deliver culturally appropriate, place-based digital skills support.
Two CRCs involved in the program, Hopetoun CRC and Mowanjum CRC, have kindly shared their experience and the impact the program has had on the community.
At the Hopetoun CRC, technology meets connection through their monthly Tech & Tea program delivered by Library Officer Chelsea Byrne, these sessions are designed to make digital skills accessible for everyone in our community.
Each month, participants gather for a relaxed afternoon tea that begins with a short presentation on a practical topic—such as using a smartphone, online safety, or selling on Facebook. The second half of the session is hands-on with one-on-one and group support where attendees can ask questions, troubleshoot devices and learn at their own pace.
A delicious afternoon tea is provided, creating a welcoming environment that encourages conversation and connection. For many, the social aspect is just as valuable as the tech support. Some participants arrive with a list of questions, while others simply enjoy listening and learning alongside friends.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. These sessions help bridge the digital divide, empowering people to feel confident online and strengthening community ties in the process.
"A real fear of technology has been a real challenge for some attendees, but with more knowledge and understanding it's been rewarding to see our participants develop more confidence in the digital world" - Program Coordinator, Chelsea Byrne.
Tech & Tea is more than a workshop—it’s a space for learning, sharing, and belonging.
Mowanjum CRC is building digital confidence in Mowanjum Community, a remote Aboriginal community about 10km from Derby in the Kimberley. The project focuses on providing refurbished laptops with training, so community members can safely complete everyday online tasks, use email, create documents in Canva and recognise scams in their own home at their own pace. The CRC has worked closely with stakeholders such as WorkVentures and NBN Indigenous Device Bank.
There have been nine workshops delivered with 30 laptops provided through the training. It has led to increased confidence with email, banking, Centrelink and other online services on their own device and there is now greater awareness of how to avoid scams.
A key learning Mowanjum CRC found is that training first builds confidence, safety and independence, ensuring technology is used effectively.