The digital divide in Logan City was highlighted soon after the COVID-19 lockdowns began in 2020. Many families did not have computers at home and a disproportionate number of students were trying to do their online schoolwork on a phone. Schools also did not have enough devices to meet the needs of their students.

Substation33, an e-waste recycling social enterprise or YFS Ltd, adjusted its business model because of this. Computers and accessories were previously deconstructed for recycling, yet they had a lot of life left in them, so we employed someone to test and refurbish them. We then worked with schools to identify the neediest students and families and offered refurbished computers to the community.

Since that time, we have delivered over 3500 computers to those in need around Logan and Queensland.

Because of this initiative, Substation33 has been thrilled to connect and partner with other like-minded organisations and charities, one of which is ACS Queensland.

Together with ACS Queensland, Substation33 has received funding from Skilling Queenslanders for Work for 12 at-risk, unemployed people gain a Certificate 1 in Business Administration, while learning to refurbish computers and deliver them to students in need. The initiative is called the “See I.T. Be I.T. Traineeship”.

The trainees are receiving individually tailored support and training in the real workplace environment of Substation33. They are learning many transferable work skills in customer relations, teamwork and communication skills.

ACS has found that Australia is currently in a deficit for supply of a local technology and digital workforce and Substation33 is happy to be partnering with the ACS in this project to help in part to bridge that digital divide.

Together we will help find our trainees IT jobs while simultaneously keeping e-waste from landfill and supplying underprivileged students with affordable devices for their educational requirements.

Substation33 is currently looking for both devices and job opportunities for those starting out in their IT journey. If you can help by donating devices or by offering our trainees work experience or paid positions, please contact either Holly Bretherton, State Manager, ACS Queensland holly.bretherton@acs.org.au or Tony Sharp, Founder, Substation33 info@substation33.com.au; 0439 843 7206.