Help & How To | Bridgeman Downs Retirement Village Residents' Information Hub

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How to get Connected to the Internet

What the internet is, how to get it, and what it costs — explained simply.

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The internet is a global network that connects computers, phones, tablets and other devices to each other and to an enormous library of information, services and entertainment. When you are "online" or "connected to the internet", your device can communicate with other devices anywhere in the world.

You do not strictly need the internet — but it opens up access to a great deal of information that many residents may find interesting and valuable:

📧 Sending and receiving emails
📹 Video calling family and friends (FaceTime, Zoom, WhatsApp)
📺 Watching catch-up TV and streaming services (ABC iView, Netflix, Disney)
🔍 Looking things up — recipes, news, health information, maps
🏦 Online banking and paying bills
🛒 Shopping online
💊 Booking medical appointments

💡 Tip: Even if you only use the internet for one or two of the things above — such as video calling your grandchildren or watching iView — many residents find it well worth having.

NBN — FTTN (what we have at Bridgeman Downs)
The NBN at the village uses Fibre to the Node technology. Fibre optic cable runs to a cabinet in the street, then the existing copper telephone wiring carries the signal the rest of the way into your unit. This is reliable for everyday use — browsing, emails, video calls and streaming — but is slower than full-fibre connections. Speeds of up to 50–100 Mbps are possible, though the actual speed in your unit will depend on the copper wiring between you and the nearest node.

4G (Fourth Generation mobile network)
A wireless internet connection delivered via the mobile phone network — the same technology that lets your phone make calls and access the internet when you are out. A "4G Home Broadband" device can create Wi-Fi in your unit without needing any cables at all. 4G is convenient but signal strength in the Village is often weak and unreliable.

5G (Fifth Generation mobile network)
The newer, faster version of mobile internet. 5G coverage in Bridgeman Downs is expanding and some providers now offer 5G Home Broadband as a genuine alternative to fixed-line NBN. Where 5G is available it can be faster and more consistent than FTTN. Worth checking with Telstra or Optus whether 5G is available at your unit's address.

💡 Tip: For most residents, the village's FTTN NBN connection will be perfectly adequate for everyday needs.

NBN (National Broadband Network)
A fixed cable internet service that connects directly to your unit, like a telephone line.

4G (Fourth Generation mobile network)
A wireless internet connection delivered via the mobile phone network — the same technology that lets your phone make calls and access the internet when you are out and about. Widely available and perfectly adequate for basic internet use. A "4G Home Broadband" device can be used to create Wi-Fi in your unit without needing a cable connection.

5G (Fifth Generation mobile network)
The newer version of mobile internet — faster than 4G where available. 5G coverage in Bridgeman Downs is expanding but is not yet as widespread as 4G.

The right plan depends on how you plan to use the internet. Keep in mind that at Bridgeman Downs the connection is FTTN, so the maximum speeds available are generally in the NBN 25 to NBN 50 range — more than adequate for the needs below:

Light use — emails, occasional web browsing, video calls
An NBN 25 or NBN 50 plan is more than adequate. These are the most affordable options, typically starting around $55–$65 per month.

Moderate use — streaming TV (iView, Netflix), regular browsing, video calls
An NBN 50 plan handles this comfortably. This is the most popular choice for single-person or couple households.

Heavier use — streaming in high quality on multiple devices, large downloads
An NBN 100 plan is unlikely to be available in the Village at this stage.

💡 Tip: If you are unsure, start with an NBN 25 plan — it is sufficient for the vast majority of everyday internet needs including streaming, video calls, and browsing.

NBN is available through many retail providers — they all use the same underlying network but compete on price, speed and service. Well-known providers available in Bridgeman Downs include:

Telstra — largest provider, strong support, tends to be higher priced
Optus — good coverage, competitive pricing, bundle options available
Aussie Broadband — highly rated for reliability and Australian customer service
TPG — competitive pricing, no lock-in contracts
Exetel — budget-friendly, reliable performance
Tangerine — consistently good value, award-winning service
Dodo — low-cost option for light users

Typical monthly costs (NBN, unlimited data):

NBN 25 — from around $55/month
NBN 50 — from around $60–$75/month
NBN 100 — from around $75–$90/month

Most plans include a modem/router supplied by the provider. There are generally no lock-in contracts — you can switch providers at any time.

💡 Tip: Prices change frequently and providers often offer sign-up discounts. A good free comparison website is WhistleOut (whistleout.com.au) — enter your address and it shows all available plans and current prices in one place.

Getting set up for the first time can feel daunting, but there are several people who can help:

Family members — if a family member is tech-savvy, they can often help you choose a plan, make the call to a provider and get everything set up
The internet provider — once you choose a provider, their customer service team will guide you through the setup process and can arrange a technician to visit if needed
Be Connected — a free Australian Government program that helps older Australians get online. Visit beconnected.esafety.gov.au or call 1300 795 897 for free support and resources
Your Residents Committee — use the "Have a Question?" form at the bottom of this page and we will do our best to point you in the right direction

💡 Tip: The Be Connected program also runs free digital skills workshops in local libraries and community centres — worth checking if you would like hands-on help getting started.

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How to Choose & Use Your Devices

Phones, tablets, laptops and desktops — what's the difference and how do you use them?

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Each device has its strengths. Here is a general guide to help you decide:

📱 Mobile Phone
Best for: calls, texts, quick look-ups, photos. Always with you. Smallest screen — can be hard to read for some.

📟 Tablet (e.g. iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab)
Best for: reading, video calls, streaming TV, browsing the web. Larger screen than a phone, light enough to hold comfortably. A great choice for many.

💻 Laptop
Best for: emails, documents and general computer related stuff on the go. Full keyboard makes typing easier. Runs on battery but needs regular charging.

🖥️ Desktop Computer
Best for: those who prefer a large screen and full keyboard at a fixed desk. Does not run on battery — always plugged in. Generally the easiest to see and type on.

💡 Tip: If you mainly want to browse the web, video call family or watch streaming TV — a tablet is often the best choice. They are simpler to use than a laptop and much easier to read than a phone.

An app (short for application) is a program you add to your device to do something specific — like watch iView, video call family or check the weather. Downloading apps is free and safe as long as you use the official store for your device.

On an Android phone or tablet:

Find and tap the Play Store app on your screen (it looks like a colourful triangle ▶).
Tap the search bar at the top and type the name of the app you want (e.g. "ABC iView").
Tap the correct app from the results, then tap "Install".
Wait a moment — the app will appear on your screen ready to use.

On an iPhone or iPad:

Find and tap the App Store app (it is blue in colour with an "A" made of three paddle pop sticks).
Tap "Search" at the bottom of the screen.
Type the name of the app you want and tap Search on the keyboard.
Tap "Get" next to the app, then confirm with your passcode or fingerprint if asked.
The app will download and appear on your Home screen.

On a laptop or desktop (Windows):

Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu.
Search for the app you want and click "Get" or "Install".

💡 Tip: Free apps are completely free to download — you will never be charged just for installing one. If an app costs money, the price will be clearly shown before you confirm. When in doubt, ask a family member to help the first time.

Yes — and it is important not to ignore them. Updates do two things: they fix security weaknesses that criminals can exploit, and they improve how your device works. Think of it like getting a lock changed after someone finds a way to pick it.

When your phone, tablet or computer shows a notification saying an update is available:

Install it as soon as it is convenient — you do not need to do it immediately, but do not keep dismissing it
Make sure your device is plugged in before starting, as updates can use a lot of battery
Connect to Wi-Fi first if possible — updates can be large and may use your mobile data allowance if you are not on Wi-Fi
The device may restart during the update — this is completely normal and nothing to worry about

The most important updates are for your operating system (iOS, Android, or Windows) and your apps. Both should be kept up to date.

💡 Tip: If you are not sure whether an update notification is genuine, do not tap any links in it. Instead, go directly to your Settings app and check for updates from there — that way you know it is real.

Yes — restarting your device regularly is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do to keep it running well.

Over time, apps and processes accumulate in the background, using up memory and slowing things down. A restart clears all of this out — like giving your device a fresh start. It can also fix minor glitches, apps that have frozen, and internet connection problems.

How often? Once a week is a good habit for most devices. If your device feels slow, is behaving oddly, or an app is not working properly, a restart should always be your first step before trying anything else.

How to restart properly — note that this is different from simply locking the screen:

Android phone or tablet: Press and hold the Power button, then tap Restart
iPhone or iPad: Press and hold the Side button and a Volume button together, slide to power off, wait 10 seconds, then press the Side button to turn back on
Windows laptop or desktop: Click the Start menu → Power → Restart
Smart TV: Use the remote's power button to turn it fully off, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on

💡 Tip: A restart is not the same as leaving your device on standby or locking the screen. A true restart means the device fully shuts down and starts fresh — this is what clears the memory and fixes most common problems.

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How to Use Your Mobile Phone

Got a new phone or not sure how to make best use the one you have? Click here.

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The most popular phone brands are: Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, OPPO, Motorola and Nokia.

Apple iPhones use an operating system called iOS. All other brands use Android — an operating system developed by Google.

Not sure which you have? If it says "iPhone" on the back, it is an Apple. If not, it is almost certainly Android. Once you know, choose the matching tab below.

Look for a button on the right-hand side of your phone — that is the Power button. It is usually the largest button on that side.

To turn it ON: Press and hold the Power button for about 2–3 seconds until the screen lights up.
To turn it OFF: Press and hold the Power button for 2–3 seconds, then tap "Power off" when the menu appears.
To just turn the screen off (without shutting the phone down): Give the Power button a quick single press.

💡 Tip: You do not need to turn your phone off every night. But remember to plug it in to your charger.

To make a call:

There are two easy ways to make a call. Using Contacts or dialing a number on the Keypad.

To use Contacts

Tap the Contacts app on your screen. You can usually find the Contacts icon on your main screen or in one of the other screens — Scroll or search for the contact you want to call.
Once you find the person you want to call, tap on their name to open their contact details.
You will see an option to call the person. Tap on the call button to make the call.
When you are done, tap the red button to hang up.
To use the Keypad
Find the green telephone icon on your screen and tap it — this opens the Phone app.
Tap the keypad icon (looks like a pattern of dots) and type in the number you want to call.
Tap the green call button to start the call.
When you are finished, tap the red button to hang up.

To answer an incoming call:

When your phone rings, you will see the caller's name or number on screen.
Swipe up on the green button to answer, or swipe down on the red button to decline.

💡 Tip: If your phone is already unlocked when it rings, you may just see a green "Answer" button and a red "Decline" button — just tap the one you want.

There are also two easy ways to send a text message. Using Contacts or typing a number on the Keyboard.
To use Contacts
Tap the Contacts app on your screen. You can usually find the Contacts icon on your main screen or in one of the other screens — Scroll or search for the contact you want to call.
Once you find the person you want to call, tap on their name to open their contact details.
You will see an option to send a message to the person. Tap on the the message button then type you message in the large empty box at the bottom of the screen.
Tap the send button (usually an arrow pointing right) to send it.
To use the Keyboard
Find the Messages app on your screen — it usually looks like a speech bubble 💬.
Tap the pencil or "+" icon to start a new message.
In the "To:" box, type the name or phone number of the person you want to message.
Tap the large empty box at the bottom of the screen and type your message.
Tap the send button (usually an arrow pointing right) to send it.

💡 Tip: Don't worry about making mistakes — you can delete letters with the backspace key (looks like an arrow with an X) before you send.

Find and tap the Settings (on your screen-looks like this ⚙️).
Scroll down and tap "Display" or "Accessibility".
Look for "Font size" or "Text size" and drag the slider to make text larger.

💡 Tip: You can also make everything bigger — look for "Display size" or "Screen zoom" in the same area. This makes all icons and buttons larger too.

Find and tap Settings (on your screen-looks like this ⚙️).
Tap "Wi-Fi" or "Connections" then "Wi-Fi".
Make sure Wi-Fi is switched ON (the switch should be blue or green).
You will see a list of available networks by name. Tap the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to.
If it has a lock symbol next to the name that looks like this 🔒 then you will need a password before you can connect.
If you have Wi-Fi in your unit and are trying to connect to it, then look for the information that was given to you when your Wi-Fi was first setup.
It might be a little rectangular card stuck on your fridge that looks like this — the Wi-Fi name and password are printed on it.
Tap the name of your Wi-Fi network in your unit.
Type in your Wi-Fi password and tap "Connect".

💡 Tip: Your Wi-Fi name and password is usually on a sticker on your internet router box — it may be labelled "WPA Key", "Password" or "Network Key".

Look on the left side of your phone — there should be two buttons stacked on top of each other.

The top button (+) makes sound louder.
The bottom button (−) makes sound quieter.

Press them while a call is active to adjust the call volume, or press them at any other time to adjust the main phone volume.

💡 Tip: If you cannot hear your phone ringing, the volume may be turned right down — or the phone may be on Silent mode. Try pressing the Volume Up button a few times.

Voicemail is an automatic answering service — when you miss a call and the caller leaves a message, it is stored by your phone network so you can listen to it later.

Setting up voicemail for the first time:

Open the Phone app (the green telephone icon).
Look for a Voicemail tab or icon — usually at the bottom of the screen.
Tap it and follow the prompts to record a greeting and set a PIN.
If you cannot find a Voicemail tab, press and hold the 1 key on the keypad — this dials your voicemail service directly on most Android phones.

Listening to messages:

When you have a voicemail, you will see a notification — often a small icon that looks like a cassette tape or an envelope with a play symbol.
Tap the Voicemail tab in the Phone app to see your messages listed.
Tap a message to play it. You can replay, delete or save it from there.
Alternatively, press and hold the 1 key on the keypad to dial in and listen.

💡 Tip: Your voicemail PIN is separate from your phone's unlock PIN. If you have never set one up, your network may have assigned a default — contact your provider (Telstra, Optus etc.) if you are not sure. They can reset it for you over the phone.

On most iPhones, the Power button (called the Side button) is on the right-hand side of the phone.

To turn it ON: Press and hold the Side button for 2–3 seconds until the Apple logo (🍎) appears on screen.
To turn it OFF: Press and hold the Side button AND one of the Volume buttons together for a few seconds, then slide the "Power Off" slider to the right.
To just lock the screen: Give the Side button a single quick press.

💡 Tip: You do not need to switch your iPhone off every night. But remember to plug it in to your charger.

To make a call:

There are two easy ways to make a call. Using Contacts or dialing a number on the Keypad

To use Contacts

Tap the Contacts app on your screen. You can usually find the Contacts icon on your main screen or in one of the other screens — Scroll or search for the contact you want to call.
Once you find the person you want to call, tap either the their name to open their contact details.
You will see a few options to call the person. Tap either the 📞 or the phone number to make the call.
When you are done, tap the red button to hang up.
To use the Keypad
Find the green telephone icon on your screen and tap it — this opens the Phone app.
Tap the keypad icon (looks like a pattern of dots) and type in the number you want to call.
Tap the green call button to start the call.
When you are finished, tap the red button to hang up.

To answer an incoming call:

When your phone rings, you will see the caller's name or number on screen.
Swipe up on the green button to answer, or swipe down on the red button to decline.

💡 Tip: To decline a call without answering, tap the red "Decline" button — the caller will be directed to your voicemail.

Tap the Messages app — it looks like a green icon with a white bubble inside.
Tap the pencil icon in the bottom right corner to write a new message.
In the "To:" box, type the name of the person (if they are in your contacts) or their phone number.
Tap the empty box at the bottom that says "iMessage" or "Text Message" and type your message.
Tap the blue arrow button to send.

💡 Tip: Blue bubbles mean the message was sent as an iMessage (free over Wi-Fi). Green bubbles mean it was sent as a regular SMS text message.

Open Settings (the grey gear icon).
Tap "Display & Brightness".
Tap "Text Size" and drag the slider to make text larger.

For even larger text and bigger buttons throughout the whole phone:

Go back to Settings and tap "Accessibility".
Tap "Display & Text Size" then "Larger Text".
Turn on "Larger Accessibility Sizes" and drag the slider.

💡 Tip: There is also a "Zoom" feature in Accessibility settings that lets you magnify any part of the screen by double-tapping with three fingers.

Find and tap Settings (on your screen-looks like this ⚙️).
Tap "Wi-Fi" near the top of the list.
Make sure Wi-Fi is switched ON (the switch should be blue or green).
You will see a list of available networks by name. Tap the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to.
If it has a lock symbol next to the name that looks like this 🔒 then you will need a password before you can connect.
If you have Wi-Fi in your unit and are trying to connect to it, then look for the information that was given to you when your Wi-Fi was first setup.
It might be a little rectangular card stuck on your fridge that looks like this — the Wi-Fi name and password are printed on it.
Tap the name of the Wi-Fi network in your unit.
Type in your Wi-Fi password and tap "Join".

💡 Tip: Once connected, your iPhone will remember the network and connect automatically next time — you will not need to type the password again.

The volume buttons are on the left side of your iPhone.

The top button (+) makes it sound louder.
The bottom button (−) makes it sound quieter.

Just above the volume buttons is a small switch — this is the Silent switch. If you can see a small orange stripe, your phone is on silent. Flick it the other way to turn the sound back on.

💡 Tip: If your phone is not ringing for incoming calls, the Silent switch is the first thing to check — it is very easy to knock by accident.

Voicemail is an automatic answering service — when you miss a call and the caller leaves a message, it is stored by your phone network so you can listen to it later.

Setting up voicemail for the first time:

Open the Phone app (the green icon on your Home screen).
Tap Voicemail in the bottom right corner of the screen.
Tap "Set Up Now" and follow the prompts to create a PIN and record a greeting.

Listening to messages:

When you have a voicemail waiting, a red badge number will appear on the Phone app icon.
Open the Phone app and tap Voicemail at the bottom right.
You will see a list of messages. Tap any message to play it.
You can tap the play/pause button to control playback, and swipe left on a message to delete it.

If Voicemail is not set up yet:

Press and hold the 1 key on the keypad — this calls your network's voicemail service directly and will walk you through setup.

💡 Tip: iPhone uses a feature called Visual Voicemail — this means you can see all your messages listed on screen and choose which one to listen to, rather than having to dial in and listen through them one by one. Most Telstra and Optus plans support this feature.

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How to make a Video Call

See and talk to your loved ones face to face — wherever they are in the world.

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A video call is like a phone call — except you can see the other person on your screen at the same time as talking to them. It is a wonderful way to stay close to family and friends who live far away, and many residents find it one of the most valuable things the internet makes possible.

What you need:

A device with a front-facing camera — all modern smartphones, tablets and laptops have one built in
An internet connection — Wi-Fi in your unit is ideal as video calls use more data than regular calls
A video calling app — free to download (see the next question)
The other person needs the same app installed on their device

💡 Tip: A tablet is often the best device for video calling — the larger screen makes it much easier to see the other person clearly, and tablets are generally easier to hold steady than a phone during a call.

There are several free video calling apps available. The right choice depends mainly on what devices you and your family use:

🍎 FaceTime — best for iPhone and iPad users
Built into every Apple device — no need to download anything. Very easy to use and excellent quality. The limitation is that it only works between Apple devices, so if your family member has an Android phone, they cannot join a FaceTime call.

💬 WhatsApp — best for calling anyone on any device
Works on both iPhone and Android — so it does not matter what device either person has. Free to use over Wi-Fi. Very popular and easy to set up. Calls are secure and private. A great all-round choice.

📹 Zoom — best for group calls and family gatherings
Excellent for calling multiple family members at once — up to 100 people on a free account. The person organising the call needs an account; guests can join simply by tapping a link. Free calls are limited to 40 minutes.

🤝 Google Meet — best if everyone uses Gmail
Free, works on any device, and easy to start a call directly from Gmail. No time limits on free calls.

💡 Tip: Ask your family what they use — the easiest option is whichever app your family members already have on their phones. WhatsApp is a safe choice if you are not sure, as it works on any device and is very widely used.

FaceTime is already installed on your iPhone or iPad — no setup needed.

Find and tap the FaceTime app — it looks like a green icon with a white video camera.
Tap the blue + button in the top right corner to start a new call.
Type the name of the person you want to call — they must be in your Contacts and have an Apple device.
Tap their name, then choose Video to start a video call (or Audio for voice only).
Wait for them to answer — you will see their face appear on your screen.
When you have finished, tap the red X button to end the call.

Answering a FaceTime call: When someone calls you, your screen will light up showing their name. Tap Accept to answer or Decline to reject the call.

💡 Tip: For the best experience, prop your device up against something stable so your hands are free and the camera is pointing at your face. Make sure you are in a well-lit spot — facing a window works well.

First-time setup:

Download WhatsApp from the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android) — it is free.
Open WhatsApp and follow the prompts to verify your phone number — it will send a code by text message.
Allow WhatsApp to access your contacts when asked — this lets it show you which of your contacts also use WhatsApp.

Making a video call:

Open WhatsApp and tap the Calls tab at the bottom (or top) of the screen.
Tap the phone+ icon to start a new call.
Find the person you want to call and tap the video camera icon next to their name.
Wait for them to answer.
Tap the red button to end the call when finished.

Answering a WhatsApp call: When someone calls you on WhatsApp, your phone will ring and show their name. Tap the green video button to answer.

💡 Tip: WhatsApp calls use your internet connection rather than your phone plan — so calling family interstate or overseas is completely free as long as you are on Wi-Fi.

The good news is that you do not need a Zoom account to join a call — only the person who organises it does. If a family member sends you a Zoom link, here is all you need to do:

Download the Zoom app from the App Store or Play Store if you have not already — it is free.
When your family member sends you a meeting link (it will look like a long web address), tap it.
Zoom will open and ask if you want to join — tap "Join with Video".
You may be asked to enter a passcode — your family member will give you this.
You may be placed in a waiting room briefly — the organiser will let you in.
Once in the call, you will see everyone on screen. Tap the microphone icon to mute or unmute yourself.
Tap "Leave" (red button) when you are ready to go.

💡 Tip: If your family organises regular Zoom calls, ask them to always send the same link — Zoom allows recurring meeting links that never change, so you can save it and use it each time without needing a new one.

A few simple adjustments make a big difference to how your video calls look and sound:

📶 Use Wi-Fi — connect to your unit Wi-Fi before calling for the most stable and clear connection
💡 Face the light — sit facing a window or lamp so your face is well lit. Avoid having a bright window behind you or you will appear as a dark silhouette
📱 Prop up your device — lean it against something stable so the camera is at eye level. This is much more natural than looking down at a phone in your hand
🔇 Find a quiet spot — background noise makes it hard to hear. Turn off the TV and close doors if possible
🎧 Use earphones if available — even basic earphones improve sound quality significantly and reduce echo
🔋 Charge your device first — video calls use battery quickly. Plug in if you plan a long call

💡 Tip: If the other person cannot hear you clearly, check that you have not accidentally muted yourself — look for a microphone icon with a line through it on screen and tap it to unmute.

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How to Use Your TV

Normal TV, Smart TVs, streaming and more — explained in plain English.

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No — not for normal TV channels. The regular free-to-air channels you have always watched (ABC, SBS, Seven, Nine, Ten and their sister channels) come through your TV aerial or antenna, exactly as they always have. You do not need the internet for these.

The internet only becomes relevant when you want to watch on-demand or catch-up programs — for example, going back to watch something you missed, or using services like ABC iView.

💡 Tip: If your regular channels have stopped working, the most common causes are a loose antenna cable at the back of the TV, or your TV needing a channel re-scan. Neither of these has anything to do with the internet.

A normal TV simply receives free-to-air channels through your antenna. That is all it does.

A Smart TV does everything a normal TV does, plus it can connect to the internet. Once connected, it can run apps such as ABC iView, SBS On Demand, Netflix and YouTube, letting you watch programs whenever you choose rather than only when they are broadcast.

Most TVs sold in Australia since around 2015 are Smart TVs. You can usually tell because the remote control has extra buttons for apps or a Home screen, and the TV's menu will include a Wi-Fi or Network setting.

💡 Tip: Having a Smart TV does not mean you have to use the internet features. You can simply continue watching normal TV channels as you always have — the smart features are just there if and when you want them.

To use the internet from your unit, you need two things:

An internet plan — this is a monthly service you sign up for with a provider such as Telstra, Optus, TPG or other providers. Most Australian homes now connect via the NBN (National Broadband Network). Prices vary but a basic plan typically costs around $50–$80 per month.
A modem/router — a small box (usually provided by your internet service provider) that plugs into the wall and creates your a Wi-Fi network in your unit. This is what your TV, phone and any other devices like a (laptop, desktop or tablet computer) all connect to wirelessly.

If you already have Wi-Fi in your unit — for example, if you use it on your phone or tablet — then you already have the internet and your Smart TV can connect to it straight away.

💡 Tip: If you are not sure whether you have the internet in your unit, check whether your mobile phone can connect to a Wi-Fi network while you are in your unit. If it can, you are already set up. The Wi-Fi name and password are usually printed on a sticker on your router box.

Streaming services let you watch TV programs, movies and documentaries whenever you like — rather than having to be in front of the TV at a set time. The programs are delivered to your TV over the internet, which is why you need a connection to use them.

There are two types:

Free streaming services (no subscription needed):

📺 ABC iView — ABC programs, news, documentaries
📺 SBS On Demand — SBS programs, world cinema, foreign-language content
📺 9Now — Channel 9 programs
📺 7Plus — Channel 7 programs
📺 10 Play — Channel 10 programs
📺 YouTube — Free videos on virtually any topic

Paid streaming services (monthly subscription):

🎬 Netflix — Movies and TV series from around the world (~$10–$22/month)
🎬 Prime — Movies and TV series from around the world (~$15–$18/month)
🎬 Stan — Australian and international shows (~$12–$18/month)
🎬 Binge — HBO and other premium content (~$10–$18/month)
🎬 Disney+ — Disney, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic (~$14/month)

💡 Tip: The free services are a great place to start — you may find there is more than enough to watch without needing a paid subscription. Short ads will appear occasionally, just like normal television.

ABC iView is free and lets you watch ABC programs whenever you like. How you get it depends on your TV.

Option 1 — Smart TV app store

Press the Home or Menu button on your remote.
Look for an App Store or Apps section.
Search for "ABC iView", select it, and choose "Install".
Once installed it will appear on your Home screen — just open it to start watching.

💡 Note: Your TV needs to be connected to the Wi-Fi in your unit for this to work.

Option 2 — Built-in iView button on the remote

Some TVs have a dedicated ABC iView button on the remote. Just press it — no setup needed!

Option 3 — Streaming device (Apple TV, Chromecast, Fetch TV)

If you have a small box or stick plugged into your TV, search for "iView" in its App Store or channel list.

Option 4 — Older TVs without internet

You can watch iView on a tablet, laptop, or phone instead. Or consider an inexpensive streaming stick (such as a Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick) that plugs into your TV's HDMI port and adds Smart TV features.

💡 Tip: iView is completely free and you do not need to create an account to watch most programs.

📧

How to Use Email

Sending, receiving and managing your emails — a simple explanation.

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Email (short for electronic mail) is a way of sending written messages over the internet — almost like posting a letter, but it arrives in seconds and costs nothing to send.

Every email user has an email address — a unique identifier that works like a postal address. For example: [email protected]. The part before the @ symbol is your name or chosen username, and the part after is the email provider (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo etc.).

You can use email to:

Send messages to family and friends anywhere in the world — for free
Receive bills, bank statements and receipts
Communicate with doctors, government services and businesses
Send and receive photos, documents and other files

💡 Tip: Unlike a text message, email is not limited in length and you can attach photos and documents. It is also more formal than texting — most businesses and government services prefer email for written communication.

Getting an email address is free and takes only a few minutes. The two most popular providers are:

Gmail — provided by Google (gmail.com)
Excellent on any device, works seamlessly with Android phones and tablets. Very widely used. Visit gmail.com and click "Create account".

Outlook — provided by Microsoft (outlook.com or hotmail.com)
A great choice if you use a Windows laptop or desktop, as it connects easily with Microsoft Office. Visit outlook.com and click "Create free account".

To create an account you will need to:

Choose an email address (e.g. your name or a variation of it)
Create a password — make it strong and write it down somewhere safe
Provide your name and date of birth
Optionally add a mobile number for account recovery

💡 Tip: If you have a family member helping you set up email for the first time, ask them to sit with you for this step. Once it is set up, day-to-day use is very straightforward.

The steps are similar in Gmail and Outlook:

Open your email app or go to your email provider's website.
Tap or click "Compose", "New email" or the pencil icon to start a new message.
In the "To:" field, type the email address of the person you are writing to.
In the "Subject:" field, type a short description of what the email is about (e.g. "Lunch next Tuesday").
Click in the large blank area below and type your message.
When you are ready, click or tap "Send" — usually a paper plane icon or a blue button.

To attach a photo or document: Look for a paperclip icon (📎) before sending. Tap it, find the file on your device, and select it. The file will be attached to your email.

💡 Tip: Always double-check the email address in the "To:" field before sending — it is easy to accidentally select the wrong person from your contacts, especially if two people have similar names.

Reading an email:

Open your email app or website.
Your incoming emails appear in the Inbox. Unread emails are usually shown in bold.
Tap or click on an email to open and read it.

Replying to an email:

With the email open, tap or click "Reply" — usually shown as an arrow pointing left ↩
The "To:" field will automatically be filled with the sender's address.
Type your response in the message area.
Click or tap "Send".

💡 Tip: You will also see a "Reply All" option — this sends your reply to everyone who received the original email, not just the sender. Use this with care — in most cases a regular Reply is what you want.

Spam is the name for unwanted, unsolicited emails — the email equivalent of junk mail. Most email providers filter obvious spam into a separate Spam or Junk folder automatically.

If you receive a suspicious email:

Do not click any links in the email — even if it looks like it is from your bank, a government agency or a well-known company
Do not open attachments from senders you do not recognise
Do not reply — this confirms to scammers that your email address is active
Simply delete it — select the email and press Delete, or swipe it away on a phone
If it appears in your Inbox, you can also mark it as spam — look for a "Report spam" or "Mark as junk" option

💡 Tip: Legitimate organisations — your bank, Medicare, Centrelink, the ATO — will never ask you to click a link to verify your details or enter your password via email. If you are ever unsure whether an email is genuine, call the organisation directly using a number from their official website.

❄️

How to get the most out of Your Air Conditioner

Stay cool in summer and warm in winter — without blowing the budget.

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The most comfortable and cost-effective temperature in summer is between 24°C and 26°C. Many people instinctively set it much lower — around 18°C or 20°C — but this makes the unit work much harder and significantly increases your electricity bill.

As a general rule, every degree lower you set the thermostat increases your running costs by around 10%. So setting it to 24°C instead of 20°C could save you up to 40% on your cooling costs.

💡 Tip: If 24°C feels too warm at first, try setting it to 26°C and using a ceiling fan at the same time. The fan makes the air feel up to 3°C cooler without using nearly as much electricity — giving you the comfort of a lower temperature at a fraction of the cost.

Cool mode — the air conditioner actively cools the air by running its compressor (the main working part). This uses more electricity but brings the room temperature down to your set temperature.

Fan mode — the unit simply circulates the existing air in the room without cooling it. This uses very little electricity — similar to a regular fan. It will not lower the room temperature but can make a room feel more comfortable on mild days.

💡 Tip: On mild summer mornings or evenings when it is not too hot, try Fan mode first. If it is not cooling you down enough, then switch to Cool mode. This simple habit can noticeably reduce your electricity bill over a summer.

A dirty filter is the most common reason an air conditioner stops cooling effectively and uses more electricity than it should. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the filter every 2 to 4 weeks during heavy use (i.e. throughout summer and winter).

How to clean it:

Turn the air conditioner off completely.
Open the front panel of the indoor unit — it usually lifts up or flips open. Refer to your manual if unsure.
Slide the filter(s) out gently — they are usually grey mesh panels.
Take them outside and give them a gentle vacuum, or rinse them under the tap with cool water.
Allow them to dry completely before reinserting — never put a wet filter back in.
Slide the filters back in, close the panel and turn the unit back on.

💡 Tip: A clean filter means your air conditioner cools faster, works less hard and costs less to run. It also improves the air quality in your home. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, ask a family member to help or contact the village office.

A few simple habits can make a big difference to your electricity bill:

Set the thermostat to 24–26°C in summer and 18–20°C in winter rather than extreme temperatures
Keep doors and windows closed while the unit is running — open doors let cool air escape and hot air in
Use curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day (usually 11am–3pm) to block out the sun
Pre-cool or pre-warm your room — turn the unit on 20 minutes before you need it rather than walking into a hot room and cranking it to maximum
Use a ceiling fan together with the air conditioner to circulate cool air more efficiently
Turn it off when you leave the room for more than 30 minutes — it is a myth that leaving it on saves money
Clean the filter regularly — a dirty filter makes the unit work harder and costs more

💡 Tip: Your air conditioner uses more electricity in the first few minutes after you turn it on, as it works hard to reach the set temperature. Once it reaches that temperature it uses much less power to maintain it. This is why setting a reasonable temperature from the start is so important.

Before calling a technician, try these simple checks:

Check the mode — make sure it is set to Cool (not just Fan or Heat)
Check the temperature setting — the set temperature should be lower than the current room temperature
Check the filter — a blocked filter is the most common cause of poor cooling. Clean it as described above
Check the outdoor unit — if the outdoor compressor unit (the box outside your unit) is covered in debris, leaves or is blocked, it will struggle to cool. Make sure it has clear space around it
Check for open windows or doors — cool air may be escaping
Give it time — on very hot days it may take 20–30 minutes to cool a room significantly

💡 Tip: If none of these steps help, the unit may need a professional service (usually a regas — refilling the cooling gas). This is recommended every 2–3 years for units in regular use. Contact Aveo or a licensed air conditioning technician.

📄

How to Read Your Utility Bills

Understanding your electricity and water bills — what every number means.

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Your electricity bill has two main components:

1. Supply charge (also called a service charge or daily charge) — this is a fixed daily fee just for being connected to the electricity network, regardless of how much electricity you use. It is charged even if you use no electricity at all. In Queensland this is typically around $1.00–$1.50 per day.

2. Usage charge — this is what you pay for the actual electricity you use, measured in kilowatt hours (kWh). Your rate per kWh (e.g. 30 cents per kWh) multiplied by how many kWh you used gives your usage cost.

💡 Tip: The supply charge is unavoidable — you pay it whether you are home or away. The usage charge is where you can save money by being mindful of what you have turned on. Look for both figures on your bill and add them together to get your total charge before GST.

A kilowatt hour (kWh) is the standard unit used to measure electricity use. It represents using 1,000 watts of power for one hour. To put that in everyday terms:

Running a typical air conditioner for 1 hour ≈ 1.5–2.5 kWh
Running a ceiling fan for 1 hour ≈ 0.05–0.1 kWh
Boiling a kettle ≈ 0.1–0.15 kWh per boil
Watching TV for 1 hour ≈ 0.05–0.15 kWh
A clothes dryer for 1 hour ≈ 2.5–4 kWh

A single person in a small unit typically uses around 5–10 kWh per day. Your bill will show your total kWh used for the billing period (usually 90 days for quarterly bills).

💡 Tip: Your bill usually shows a graph or table comparing your usage to the same period last year or to similar households. This is a very useful way to spot if your usage has gone up and investigate why.

A sudden increase in your electricity bill usually has one of these causes:

More air conditioner use — air conditioning is by far the biggest electricity user in most homes. A hot summer or cold winter will push usage up significantly
A longer billing period — check how many days the bill covers. If it is 95 days instead of the usual 90, your bill will naturally be higher
A price increase — electricity rates in Queensland tend to rise each July 1. Check whether your rate per kWh has changed
A new appliance — a new dryer, heater or second TV can add noticeably to your bill
An appliance left on — a pool pump, storage heater or electric hot water system running more than usual
An estimated read — if your meter could not be read (e.g. access issues), the bill may be estimated. Check the bill for an "E" or "Estimated" notation next to the meter read

💡 Tip: If you think your bill is wrong, you have the right to request an actual meter read. Call the number on your bill and ask for a re-read. There is usually no charge for the first re-read.

Water bills in Queensland are issued by Brisbane City Council (or your local council) and typically have three parts:

1. Water access charge — a fixed charge for being connected to the water supply, similar to the electricity supply charge. This is charged regardless of how much water you use.

2. Water usage charge — calculated per kilolitre (kL) of water used. One kilolitre = 1,000 litres. Brisbane uses a tiered pricing system — the first tier (up to 150 kL per quarter) is charged at a lower rate, and usage above that is charged at a higher rate.

3. Sewerage charge — a fixed charge for waste water removal. This is usually the same regardless of your water usage.

A single person typically uses around 30–50 kL per quarter. A household of two around 60–80 kL.

💡 Tip: If your water usage has jumped unexpectedly, check for a dripping tap or a running toilet. Even a slowly running toilet can waste thousands of litres per month — and it is not always obvious. You can test for a silent leak by putting a few drops of food colouring in the cistern. If colour appears in the bowl without flushing, the toilet is leaking.

Yes — if you hold a Pensioner Concession Card or a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, you may be entitled to significant discounts on your electricity and water bills in Queensland.

Queensland electricity concession — eligible pensioners receive a rebate on their electricity bills, applied automatically if your retailer has your concession card details.

Queensland water subsidy — eligible pensioners may receive a rebate on water and sewerage charges through your local council.

How to check and apply:

Call your electricity retailer and ask whether your concession card is registered on your account
Contact Brisbane City Council (or your local council) about the water rebate
Visit the Queensland Government website (qld.gov.au) and search for "electricity concession" or "pensioner rebate"

💡 Tip: These concessions do not apply automatically in all cases — you need to make sure your retailer has your concession card number on file. It is worth a quick phone call to confirm, as the savings can be substantial — potentially hundreds of dollars per year.

Yes — Canstar Blue has published a clear, plain-English guide to reading your electricity bill. It explains each section of a typical energy bill, what the numbers mean, and what to look out for.

🔗 Canstar Blue — How to read your energy bill

💡 Tip: This link opens in a new tab so you won't lose your place on this page. You can refer back to it while looking at your own bill.

🔒

How to Stay Safe Online

Passwords, scams and simple habits that can keep you safe on the internet.

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Scammers are skilled at making their messages look genuine — but there are almost always warning signs. The Australian Government's Scamwatch service identifies these as the most common red flags:

🚨 Urgency — "Act now or your account will be closed", "You must pay today". Legitimate organisations never pressure you like this
🚨 Unexpected contact — an email, text or call you were not expecting, especially about money, prizes or problems with your account
🚨 Requests for money or gift cards — no legitimate government agency, bank or business will ever ask you to pay with gift cards (e.g. iTunes, Google Play)
🚨 Requests for personal information — your bank will never ask for your full password, PIN or Medicare number over the phone or by email
🚨 Too good to be true — prize wins you did not enter, unexpected refunds, investment returns that sound remarkable
🚨 Threats — "You owe a debt", "Police will visit", "Your visa is cancelled". These are designed to frighten you into acting without thinking

If something feels wrong — stop. Hang up, do not click any links, and do not give any information. Then call the organisation directly using a number you find yourself — not one they gave you.

💡 Tip: If you think you have been contacted by a scammer, you can report it to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au or call 1300 795 897. Reporting helps protect other Australians.

A strong password is your first line of defence against someone accessing your accounts. Here are the key rules:

Make it long — at least 12 characters. Longer is stronger
Use a mix — combine letters (upper and lower case), numbers and symbols (e.g. !, @, #)
Avoid obvious choices — your name, birthday, "password", "123456" or your address are the first things a scammer will try
Use a different password for each account — if one account is compromised, the others stay safe

A simple trick — use a passphrase: Choose three or four random words that mean something to you and string them together with a number or symbol. For example: BlueSky$Biscuit47 — long, memorable and very hard to guess.

If you have many passwords to remember, consider a free password manager app such as Bitwarden — it remembers all your passwords securely so you only need to remember one master password.

💡 Tip: Never share your password with anyone — including people claiming to be from your bank, the government or a tech company. No legitimate organisation will ever ask for your password.

Phishing (pronounced "fishing") is when a scammer sends a fake email or text message pretending to be from a trusted source — such as your bank, Australia Post, Medicare, the ATO, or a well-known company like Apple or Amazon. The aim is to trick you into clicking a link and entering your personal or financial details on a fake website.

How to spot a phishing message:

The sender's email address looks slightly wrong (e.g. [email protected] instead of amazon.com)
The message contains spelling mistakes or awkward English
It creates urgency — "verify your account immediately" or "your parcel is on hold"
It asks you to click a link and enter personal details or a password

What to do: Do not click any links. If you think there might be a genuine issue with your account, go directly to the organisation's website by typing the address yourself in your browser — never via a link in an email.

💡 Tip: Your bank, Medicare, and the ATO will never ask you to verify your details by clicking a link in an email or text message. When in doubt, call the organisation directly on their official number.

Public Wi-Fi — such as in cafes, shopping centres, libraries and airports — is convenient but can be risky because other people on the same network can sometimes intercept what you are doing.

Safe to do on public Wi-Fi:

General browsing and reading news
Watching videos or streaming
Checking emails (reading only — be cautious about what you send)

Avoid on public Wi-Fi:

Online banking or checking financial accounts
Shopping and entering card details
Logging in to sensitive accounts with passwords
Anything involving personal, financial or medical information

💡 Tip: In your unit, your Wi-Fi is private and secure — that is the safest place for banking and anything sensitive. If you need to do banking while out, use your phone's mobile data (turn off Wi-Fi) rather than a public network.

As a general rule, treat your personal information online the same way you would treat your wallet — keep it close and only share what is necessary.

Never share these online unless absolutely necessary and on a trusted, secure website:

Bank account numbers or BSB
Credit or debit card numbers
Passwords or PINs
Medicare number or tax file number
Full date of birth combined with your address
Passport or driver's licence details

On social media — be mindful of what you post publicly. Scammers can use details like your birthday, pets' names or suburb to guess passwords or answer security questions.

💡 Tip: A secure website shows a padlock icon 🔒 in the address bar and the address starts with https:// (the "s" stands for secure). Always check for this before entering any personal or financial details.

If you think you have been scammed, act quickly — the sooner you respond, the better the chance of limiting the damage.

Contact your bank immediately if any money has been transferred or card details shared. Banks have fraud teams available 24 hours a day. Ask them to stop any transactions and secure your account.
Change your passwords for any accounts that may have been compromised — starting with your email and banking.
Report it to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au — this helps warn other Australians and assists authorities in tracking scammers.
Report it to the Australian Cyber Security Centre at cyber.gov.au if it involved your computer or online accounts being accessed.
Talk to someone you trust — a family member, friend. Scams can be emotionally distressing and you should not deal with it alone.

💡 Tip: Do not feel embarrassed — scammers are highly sophisticated and target people of all ages and backgrounds. Reporting it promptly is the most important thing you can do, both for yourself and to protect others.

🏦

How to safely access and use Online Banking

Managing your money safely from your phone, tablet or computer.

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Online banking lets you access and manage your bank account through the internet — using your bank's website or app on your phone or tablet. You can check your balance, view transactions, transfer money, pay bills and more, without needing to visit a branch.

Is it safe? Yes — Australian banks invest heavily in security. Online banking uses strong encryption (the same technology used by governments and the military to protect data) and multiple layers of identity checks. Millions of Australians use it safely every day.

The most important thing to know is that the main risks come from scammers, not from the banking system itself. As long as you follow a few simple rules (covered in the questions below), online banking is very safe.

💡 Tip: Using your bank's official app (downloaded from the App Store or Play Store) is generally safer than using a browser, because the app is designed specifically to be secure and is harder for scammers to replicate.

Getting set up for the first time is straightforward. The easiest way is to do it together with a family member or trusted friend the first time.

Contact your bank — call their customer service line or visit a branch and ask to set up online banking. They will verify your identity and give you a customer number or username.
Set a password — choose a strong, unique password (see the Staying Safe Online category for tips).
Download the bank's official app — search for your bank's name in the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android). Make sure it is the official app — check the publisher matches your bank's name.
Log in — enter your customer number and password. Your bank will likely send a one-time code to your phone as an extra security step.
Explore — take some time to look around. Check your balance, view recent transactions, and find where the payment and transfer functions are before you need to use them.

💡 Tip: All major Australian banks — Commonwealth, Westpac, ANZ, NAB and others — have free apps and dedicated phone support lines to help you get started. Do not hesitate to call them.

Paying a bill using BPAY (the most common way to pay bills in Australia):

Find the BPAY section in your banking app — it may be under "Pay" or "Transfer & Pay".
On your bill, find the Biller Code and your Reference Number — these are printed on the bill itself.
Enter those numbers, the amount, and confirm.
The payment is processed and you will receive a confirmation.

Transferring money to another person:

Go to "Transfer" or "Pay Someone" in your app.
Enter the recipient's BSB (6-digit bank code) and Account Number.
Enter the amount and an optional description.
Review carefully before confirming — once sent, transfers can be hard to reverse.

💡 Tip: Always double-check the BSB and account number before confirming a transfer. Scammers sometimes impersonate people or businesses and ask you to transfer money to a different account. If someone sends you new payment details unexpectedly, call them directly to confirm before paying.

Follow these simple habits and your online banking will be very secure:

Never share your password or PIN — your bank will never ask for these, and neither will any government agency
Always log out when you have finished banking — especially on a shared device
Use the Wi-Fi in your unit for banking — avoid doing any banking on public Wi-Fi in cafes or shopping centres
Check your statements regularly — look for any transactions you do not recognise and report them to your bank immediately
Enable notifications — most banking apps can send you an alert every time money leaves your account, so you know straight away if something unusual happens
Never click links in emails or texts claiming to be from your bank — always go directly to your bank's app or type the address yourself in the browser

💡 Tip: If you ever receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank asking for your password, account details or to transfer money to a "safe account" — hang up immediately. This is a scam. Call your bank back on the number on the back of your card.

If you see a transaction you do not recognise — even a small one — take it seriously and act quickly:

Do not panic — but do act promptly. The sooner you report it, the better.
Call your bank's fraud line immediately — the number is on the back of your card or on their official website. Banks have 24-hour fraud teams.
Ask them to review the transaction and, if necessary, freeze your card or account while they investigate.
Change your password if you think your account access may have been compromised.

Australian banks are required to investigate fraud reports promptly, and in many cases will refund money lost to unauthorised transactions.

💡 Tip: Small test transactions (as little as $1 or $2) are sometimes made by scammers to check that a stolen card works before making larger purchases. Never ignore an unfamiliar transaction no matter how small.

🛒

How to Shop Safely Online

How to buy things online with confidence and avoid scams.

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Yes — shopping online is safe when you use reputable websites and follow a few simple guidelines. Millions of Australians shop online every day with no problems at all.

The key is knowing how to tell a trustworthy website from a dodgy one — covered in the questions below.

Reliable Australian online shopping options include:

🏬 Big W, Target, Kmart, Myer, David Jones — major Australian retailers with well-established online stores
📦 Amazon Australia (amazon.com.au) — wide range of products, reliable delivery
💊 Chemist Warehouse, Priceline — pharmacy and health products
🛒 Woolworths, Coles — grocery delivery to your door

💡 Tip: If you are new to online shopping, starting with the online store of a retailer you already know and trust in person — such as Woolworths or Big W — is a great way to begin with confidence.

Before entering any payment details, check for these signs that a website is trustworthy:

🔒 A padlock icon in the address bar at the top of your browser — this means the connection is encrypted and secure
🔒 The address starts with "https://" — the "s" stands for secure. Never enter payment details on a site that only shows "http://"
📋 Clear contact information — a legitimate Australian business will show a phone number, address and ABN
⭐ Customer reviews — look for reviews on the site itself and on independent sites like Google or ProductReview.com.au
💳 Familiar payment options — reputable sites accept credit cards and PayPal. Be wary of sites that only accept bank transfers or gift cards

💡 Tip: If a deal looks too good to be true — an expensive item at a tiny fraction of the normal price — it almost certainly is. Stick to well-known retailers especially when starting out.

Find what you want — browse or search the website for the item you would like to buy.
Add to cart — click or tap "Add to Cart" or "Add to Bag". You can keep browsing and adding more items.
View your cart — tap the cart icon (usually top right) to see everything you have selected.
Proceed to checkout — click "Checkout" or "Buy Now".
Enter your delivery address — type your unit number and full address carefully.
Choose delivery — select a delivery option.
Enter payment details — type your credit or debit card number, expiry date and the three-digit security code on the back.
Review your order — check everything looks correct before confirming.
Place your order — click "Place Order" or "Confirm". You should receive a confirmation email shortly after.

💡 Tip: Always keep your order confirmation email — it contains your order number which you will need if you want to track your delivery or contact the retailer about any issues.

The Australian Government's Scamwatch service reports that online shopping scams are among the most common types affecting Australians. You can protect yourself by adopting this approach:

Stick to well-known retailers — especially when starting out. Type the web address yourself rather than clicking a link in an email or social media ad
Never pay by bank transfer or gift card — legitimate retailers do not ask for payment this way. This is almost always a scam
Be wary of social media ads — many fake shops advertise on Facebook and Instagram with tempting prices. If you do not know the brand, research it before buying
Check the return policy — reputable retailers have a clear, fair returns policy. No returns policy is a warning sign
Use a credit card if possible — credit cards offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If you are charged for something you did not receive, you can dispute the charge with your bank

💡 Tip: If you think you have been scammed by an online seller, contact your bank immediately and report it to Scamwatch at scamwatch.gov.au. Act quickly — the sooner you report it, the better the chance of recovering your money.

🤖

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

What it is, who makes it, how to use it — in plain English.

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Artificial Intelligence — usually just called AI — is computer software that can do things that normally require human thinking. It can read and write text, answer questions, understand what you are saying, recognise pictures, translate languages, and much more.

The most common form of AI that people use today is a chatbot — a program you can have a written conversation with, almost like texting a very knowledgeable friend. You type a question or request in plain English, and it writes back a helpful, detailed answer.

For example, you could ask it things like:

"Can you explain what my doctor meant by atrial fibrillation?"
"Write a birthday message for my granddaughter who is turning 16."
"What are some easy recipes using chicken and vegetables?"
"Help me write a letter of complaint to my electricity provider."

💡 Tip: AI is a tool — like a library or a calculator — that helps you find information and get things done. It does not think or feel the way people do and it is not always right. It works best when you treat it as a helpful starting point rather than the final word on any important matter.

There are several AI tools available to the public. The main ones you will hear about are:

Claude — made by Anthropic (an American AI safety company)
Known for being helpful, honest and safe to use. Particularly good at explaining things clearly, writing, and thoughtful conversation. Available at claude.ai

ChatGPT — made by OpenAI (an American AI research company)
The first widely popular AI chatbot — most people have heard of it. Very capable and versatile. Available at chatgpt.com

Copilot — made by Microsoft
Built into Windows computers and Microsoft 365 (Word, Outlook etc.). If you use a Windows laptop or desktop, you may already have access to it. Also available at copilot.microsoft.com

Gemini — made by Google
Google's AI assistant. Integrated with Google Search and Google services. Available at gemini.google.com

💡 Tip: All four are capable and free to use at a basic level. If you are just starting out, any of them will serve you well. Claude and ChatGPT are particularly well suited to general questions and everyday tasks.

Using an AI tool is simpler than you might think. Here is how to get started using Claude as an example — the steps are very similar for any AI tool:

On your phone, tablet or computer, open your internet browser (Safari, Chrome, or Edge).
Go to claude.ai — type it into the address bar at the top of the browser.
You will be asked to create a free account using your email address. This takes about two minutes.
Once logged in, you will see a text box. Simply type your question or request in plain English — exactly as you would ask a person — and press Enter or tap the send button.
The AI will write back a response, usually within a few seconds.
You can then continue the conversation — ask follow-up questions, ask it to explain something differently, or start a new topic entirely.

💡 Tip: You do not need to use special language or commands. Just write naturally — the same way you would ask a friend or family member. The more detail you give, the more useful the answer will be.

Yes — all the major AI tools offer a free version that is more than adequate for everyday use. You can ask questions, get help writing, have conversations, and much more at no cost.

Paid plans are available for people who need to use AI extensively for work or business — but for general everyday use, the free version is excellent and more than sufficient.

Claude (claude.ai) — free with a basic account
ChatGPT (chatgpt.com) — free with a basic account
Copilot (copilot.microsoft.com) — free
Gemini (gemini.google.com) — free with a Google account

💡 Tip: You will never be charged simply for creating a free account or using the basic features. If a paid upgrade is offered, it will always be clearly presented as optional.

AI tools are safe to use for everyday tasks — they are not dangerous, they will not harm your device, and the reputable ones are designed to be helpful and respectful.

However, there are two important things to keep in mind:

AI can make mistakes. It sometimes gets facts wrong, especially about recent events or very specific details. Always double-check anything important — particularly medical, legal or financial information — with a qualified professional.

Be careful what personal information you share. Avoid typing in sensitive details such as your full address, bank account numbers, passwords, tax file number, or Medicare number. Treat an AI conversation similarly to how you would treat an email — share only what you are comfortable with.

💡 Tip: AI is excellent for general information, help with writing, explaining concepts, and creative tasks. For anything with serious consequences — health decisions, legal matters, financial advice — always follow up with a qualified human professional.

Here are some practical ways residents may find AI helpful:

📝 Writing help — drafting letters, emails, complaints, birthday messages or thank-you notes
❓ Explaining things — medical terms your doctor used, your electricity bill, a legal document, news stories
🍳 Recipes — suggest meals based on what is in your fridge, adapt recipes for dietary needs
🌏 General knowledge — history, geography, science, how things work
💊 Health questions — understanding conditions or medications (always confirm with your doctor)
🎵 Entertainment — suggest books, movies or music based on your interests
✈️ Travel — help plan a trip, suggest things to do, convert currencies
📞 Preparing for calls — help you know what to say when calling a government department or insurance company
🧩 Puzzles and games — play word games, answer trivia, chat for company

💡 Tip: There is no such thing as a silly question for an AI. It will never judge you, never get impatient, and will happily explain things as many times as you need in different ways. Many people find this particularly helpful when they feel embarrassed asking a person.

Bridgeman Downs Retirement Village

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