The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) reported yesterday that in a consumer survey, it was found that a significant minority of adult Australians are missing out on the benefits of the internet and mobile phone technology.

The survey conducted by the ACMA last April also found that 17 per cent of Australians aged 18+ have never used the internet and the proportion not having used the internet is higher among older Australians, regional Australians and lower income households.

Mr Chris Chapman, Chairman of the ACMA, said that this is “a challenge because without the necessary skills and motivation, this group of adult Australians will be left behind as digitial media becomes increasingly integrated into everyday social, cultural and economic life.”

The survey was commissioned to assist the communications authority in understanding the attitudes of non-users behind their non-use or limited use of digital media specifically the internet and the mobile phone.

The report findings, according to the ACMA, will assist in developing policies and programs to build digital media literacy and to provide consumer advice in cybersafety and e-security.