COMMUNITIES

23
Technology
The technology and digital landscape has
changed significantly over the last 10 years,
with the need to keep up-to-date, both critical
for engagement but costly for many parts
of Council.
The use of and engagement with technology
and digital platforms form a key component to
the future of services and in building capacity
in the community. Technology has both
increased and limited access to resources, it has
democratised learning, and opened up channels
of communication and information sharing.
Through providing free access, education
and new channels of engagement, there
is the opportunity to connect and support
the community in new and exciting ways.
Learning Communities will look to take a lead
role in supporting access to technology for all
while recognising the need to be prudent in
resourcing and investment when responding to
continued changes in technology.
Leveraging the assets and
strengths in the community
Hobsons Bay is a vibrant community with a
historic, artistic, diverse and a rich culture at its
heart. Learning Communities want to make the
most of these assets and strengths through:
• working alongside artists, musicians, authors
and cultural leaders to engage and connect
• better use of active community volunteers to
share their experience, skills and knowledge
to build capacity and
• celebrating Hobsons Bay’s heritage,
offering opportunities for everyone in the
community to access information, create new
content and share in the deep history and
contemporary story of the city.
The future of volunteering
There is currently an increasing recognition
of the critical importance of volunteering to
national life. Voluntary work meets needs
and expands opportunities for participation,
personal development and recreation and
helps to develop and reinforce social networks
and cohesion. It can also significantly benefit
physical and psychological wellbeing as well
as being a pathway to employment. Council
has the opportunity to take a leadership role
in developing promoting and recognising
volunteering as a significant contributor to the
social capital of the community.