SCHOOLS and community groups in northern Victoria are encouraged to help older Australians improve their digital skills through a new government program.

The Australian Government has launched the Young Mentors program, which aims to improve the digital knowledge of older Australians by connecting them with teenagers.

Locals schools and community groups across northern Victoria can apply for the free digital mentoring imitative that supports older Australians to get online, while encouraging a greater sense of community and connection through interaction with young people.

The program involves community organisations or groups partnering with secondary schools to coordinate one-hour mentoring sessions, which focus specifically on the needs of the older learners, that are delivered weekly over a period of six weeks.

For older Australians, mentoring can build confidence in using digital technology, which can create a greater sense of independence, provide access to more services and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

The program gives young people the opportunity to develop valuable teaching, communication and leadership skills while making a valuable social contribution.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the program would help bring age groups together.

"The Young Mentors program helps bridge the digital divide by connecting two groups that were particularly impacted through the COVID-19 pandemic, older Australians and young people," she said.

For more information visit www.esafety.gov.au/seniors/be-connected-young-mentors