Peak consumer communications group ACCAN today announced the six new consumer research, education and advocacy projects awarded funding through the 2012 Round of the $250,000 ACCAN Grants Scheme.

The projects, which will be undertaken by leading Australian research and community groups, are designed to help a wide range of consumers – from developing an online computer training course for seniors to providing a comprehensive website for young mobile consumers, and research into how small businesses fare in the communications market.

A research team at the University of Melbourne is undertaking research into “digital death”, which is the term used to describe what happens to a person’s email, social media and other online accounts after death, with the view to informing policy discussions that may shape future regulation.

Another innovative project being funded called “Know Your Gizmo” will see young people in regional Australia pair with seniors to take part in a six-week program to assist the older people to learn to use a “gizmo” of their choice, strengthening community ties and teaching young people about the difficulties older people face. 

“The range and scope of these projects is impressive and we have no doubt that we’ll see some innovative research and consumer advocacy taking place as the projects are completed over the next 12 months,” said ACCAN Deputy Chief Executive Narelle Clark.

“The competitiveness of the scheme continues to grow with a record 75 applications this year. ACCAN would like to congratulate the six groups who were awarded funding. The Independent Grants Panel would also like to thank every group that submitted an application for funding – the quality of the applications this year was again of a very high standard.”

The ACCAN Grants Scheme, now in its fourth year, provides over $250,000 in funding each year for projects that align with the organisation’s vision of available, affordable and accessible communications for all Australians.

Media contact:
Elise Davidson M: 0409 966 931 Twitter: @ACCAN_AU

Full details regarding the projects funded under the 2012 ACCAN Grants Scheme. 

Download: ACCAN 2012 Grants Scheme Announcement [Adobe Acrobat PDF - 123.72 KB]
Download: ACCAN 2012 Grants Scheme Announcement [Word Document - 75 KB]