The National Broadband Network will potentially provide the opportunity for all Australians to access the same level of information and online services regardless of their location, age and level of mobility. But this opportunity can only be grasped by those who have the technical skills needed to use computers and the internet. This research shows that older Australians use computers and the internet less than younger Australians. This is likely to be a cohort effect that will diminish over time as younger generations age. But in the short term, information and services aimed at older Australians will need to be provided in additional ways