The eSafety Commissioner (eSafety) has released a new mobile banking course to help older Australians manage their money at a time and place convenient to them.

Mobile banking enables physical distancing and minimises the need to go to a branch, which has become increasingly important during the pandemic.

Over 60 per cent of senior Australians undertake online banking at least monthly but are sceptical of mobile banking security. The course aims to instill confidence to bank safely on their smartphone or tablet.

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said the new course will teach them how to safely set up and use mobile banking, pay bills and transfer money.

‘Mobile banking is a great way for seniors to adapt to the new normal, physical distance and do their banking more easily,’ she said.

The course has a strong focus on safety with a range of tips, including how to safely download mobile banking apps, creating strong passwords, using two-factor authentication and being aware of potential scams.

‘Using a mobile banking app doesn’t mean you can’t still visit a bank branch and conduct your banking in person,’ Ms Inman Grant said. 'However, it does let you access information quickly outside of banking hours and so much more.’

Visit the Be Connected website to see the course.