Who is eligible?
You are eligible if you are on a low income, the holder of a concession card and can pick up the computer from ComputerBank in Fairy Meadow. (If you are not eligible for a free computer ring us on 4284 8676 and we
will give you a quote.)

Fill in the application form that you can download from this website at the bottom of this page under individual form application.

Your application needs to state why you would like a computer and include a supporting letter. We will accept a supporting letter from a social service agency, case worker, support worker, education institution, psychiatrist, psychologist, government department, religious leader or general practitioner. Your support letter should include proof of low income and a brief description of why you need a computer. Please show us your concession card when you come to pick up your computer.

All information obtained by ComputerBank will be treated confidentially.

The basic free ComputerBank system comprises:

• The desktop computer hardware is usually a minimum Pentium 3, with
  256 MB RAM on a 20 Gig hard drive. It also has a floppy disk drive, CD
  Rom Drive, minimum 15” Monitor, a keyboard and mouse. These minimums
  may change from time to time, as we have parts available.
• Linux Operating System. This is a form of Linux operating system,
  and is a complete and free operating system. Linux systems have
  many forums where you can go to ask for advice, join the Linux
  computer community and find out which are the best games to download.
• The following free and open source software is installed:
• Open Office for word documents
• Spreadsheets
• Power Point presentations, drawing,
• The GIMP imaging program and basic card and kids’ games if required.
• Mozilla web browser, Email reader and Pidgeon chat software. These
  programs will be useful if you purchase a modem and organise an
  internet connection.
• PDF Writer and Reader (equivalent to Microsoft Windows).

Please be assured that the computer comes with free training to ensure you will be confident when you take it home.

The Linux operating system and most of the software included with it is available to use, copy, modify and distribute free of charge under the General Public License (GPL). Unlike Microsoft Windows computers there
are no licence fees for the operating system, the desktop environment or any of the software on a Computerbank computer. The computers have been designed and built from the ground up by highly skilled volunteers at Computerbank.

We do NOT supply Windows systems or windows software. We do not configure “dual boot” systems.

For a faster computer with more memory you can chose a System upgrade:
P4 512 RAM, 40 Gig hard drive. .................... $40.

If you want any of these extras include a $10 deposit with your application. The deposit can be by money order, cheque (payable to “ComputerBank Illawarra”) or by cash in person. Deposit cheques are not cashed until the computer is picked up and any balance is paid. If you fail to pick-up your computer after 3 attempts your application will be cancelled and deposit kept for administration costs.

Concessions Available for Internet Services for those on a Pension
See http://www.tadaustconnect.org.au/ (Dial-up as of May 2010 is $6.95 per month - unlimited) or phone them on 1300735439 for more information.
They can also tell you if ADSL or wireless broadband is available in your area and prices for these services. We don't suggest dial up as it is too slow these days.

Internet Services
To run ADSL you need a ADSL Modem with an Ethernet connection for your computer to connect to. If you have trouble connecting with your ADSL modem. You can help us assist you by providing the passwords and user
names for the modem and connection.

Dial Up
Computerbank does NOT provide a free Internet service. ComputerBank can advise you how to find an introductory Internet dial up service provider once your application has been approved. Be aware that dial up is very slow these days. Or you can organise your own Internet service before collection or delivery. We need the settings so that we can set it up for you. Instructions are provided in our user lesson or you can bring
your computer back at a later date if you are unable to do this. We find it time consuming and unproductive setting up Internet connections over the phone.

Printers
Before buying a printer have a look on www.linuxprinting.org
You can see if your printer will be compatible with your Linux operating system. Please check with us to
make sure it will work with your ComputerBank computer. Keep in mind to check the cost of ink replacement as some ink replacements cost over $90.

Training and Support
ComputerBank offers training to all successful applicants. Your current computer skills (or lack of) will not affect your eligibility; we will help you learn all you need to know to get going. We encourage you to
attend at least one training session. We will book the training time with you when your application is approved.

During the first three months of receiving a computer ComputerBank provides telephone support on Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am-3pm (subject to volunteer resources). We also provide Email support to users of our systems. cbi@fishinternet.com.au

Other important Information

• Our service is a volunteer service. When you come to Computerbank
  we would appreciate it if you could remember this and thank our
  volunteers for the work they do.
• We will call you when your application is approved and book your training sessions. If you are worried about the progress of your application we don't mind if you call us.
• Our voluntary service operates on a first come first served basis we cannot commit to your deadlines.
• All applications go onto a waiting list. The waiting list for individuals wanting a desktop computer is around one to two months. The waiting list for for groups is around four months.
• Computerbank is unable to deliver computers, please ensure you can organise your own transport for your computer (courier, friend, taxi, social worker, or other).
• If you have any additional peripherals (eg: printer, scanner, modem, etc) which need to be configured with the computer, they must be brought into the office one week before picking up your
  computer, otherwise we make no guarantee that they will work.
• If you fail to attend booked training sessions and you do not let us know in advance - you will be required to re-apply. Your application will return to the end of the waiting list.

Community Groups Application Form
We can provide non-profit organisations with multiple computers for a low fee, however due to the high demand on our resources, we have had to stop accepting requests from Community Groups for a period of time. But if you want to find out how to apply when we have re-commenced accepting
applications, click here for more information and an application form.

Individual Application form
To obtain an application form, click here to download a form in pdf format,and send it to our mail address of PO Box 531, Fairy Meadow. Or you can send us a stamped self-addressed envelope and we will send you an application form by return mail.