Removing IT Access Barriers in Greater Shepparton
The Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project is proud to celebrate the continued success of its Laptops with Love program, a community-led initiative helping to remove digital access barriers for local learners.
Since launching in December 2021, Laptops with Love has redistributed over 700 laptops back into the community. Generously donated, professionally refurbished, and gifted to those who need them most, these laptops are helping children, young people and adults fully engage in education and work towards their study and employment goals.
The program is delivered through strong local partnerships with Goulburn Murray Water, Goulburn Valley Water and Goulburn Valley Grammar School, who donate retired laptops in bulk that are still in excellent working order. Advance Computing and Data Parts then refurbish the devices, ensuring each laptop is ready for its second life.
Laptops with Love supports students across primary, secondary and tertiary education, as well as applicants and recipients of the Lift Off Educational Scholarship. In 2026, through Lift Off alone, 19 students received a laptop to support their transition into university or TAFE. The Lift Off educational scholarships is a partnership between the Greater Shepparton Foundation and the Lighthouse Project.
Amy Robinson, Executive Officer of the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, said the initiative reflects Lighthouse’s whole-of-community approach.
“Lighthouse is incredibly grateful to our partner organisations for their commitment to removing barriers so children and young people in the region can access education and achieve their aspirations.”
“As the cost of living continues to grow, so too does the demand from families to access material support in our region which includes essential educational resources.
“I encourage other businesses or individuals to get involved and donate if you can assist, whether one laptop or a business upgrading several devices. Every laptop repurposed is diverted from e-waste and is supporting our local youth and leaders of tomorrow.”
For more information about Laptops with Love, to contribute to the initiative, or to access a laptop, please contact Laptops with Love Program Coordinator, Kathy Fuller at kfuller@gslp.com.au.
