AusNet has awarded RMIT University $30,000 from its annual Vulnerability Research Grant – for research to improve the way the sector communicates with diverse communities.
AusNet Executive General Manager Compliance, Risk & Corporate Affairs, Amanda Robertson, said this grant will provide funding to explore opportunities to improve the way the energy sector communicates with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.
“This research will focus on older CALD individuals and newly arrived migrants who might have limited access to, or struggle with, digital technology,” Ms Robertson said.
Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) research shows that as energy suppliers and government agencies increasingly shift information online, CALD communities – who often have low digital literacy and limited access to digital resources – are at risk of being left behind.
“Through this grant we hope to gain a more detailed understanding of these customers’ needs, so we can develop strategies to engage with them more effectively,” Ms Robertson said.
RMIT University will work closely with AusNet’s Customer Communications and Research teams throughout the project.
AusNet said the RMIT team has a strong track record in consumer research, with recent projects completed for organisations such as the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Department of Families, Fairness and Housing, VicHealth and Sustainability Victoria.
“AusNet looks forward to the valuable insights this project will bring and remains committed to supporting customers experiencing vulnerability,” Ms Robertson said.
The Vulnerability Research Grant is an annual initiative funded by AusNet, offering $30,000 to social service organisations for research focused on customers experiencing vulnerability. Previous AusNet Vulnerability Research Grants have helped AusNet to better serve customers living with disability and older customers.
For more information on this Grant visit: https://communityhub.ausnetservices.com.au/ausnets-vulnerability-research-grant.
