Many people have used BigPond, OptusNet or another internet-provider email address for a very long time.
That has worked well for years, but email services linked to internet providers are becoming less reliable and, in some cases, providers have reduced or withdrawn email services altogether.
A simple way to reduce this risk is to set up a new email address with a large, well-supported provider such as Gmail or Outlook.com, and use that new address for important services like banking, myGov, superannuation, investments and family communication.
Why Consider a Change?
Older internet-provider email addresses can sometimes have more filtering problems, spam issues or delivery failures than modern email platforms, and some providers no longer see email as a core service.
That means an important message from a bank, super fund, accountant, government agency or investment platform might be delayed, blocked or missed.
What is the Safest and Simplest Option?
For most people, the simplest option is not a complicated technical setup.
It is usually one new email address with a major provider that works well on phones, tablets and computers, and that family members can also help support if needed.
Common examples include:
✅ Gmail
✅ Outlook.com
These services are widely used, easy to set up on most devices, and are less dependent on your internet provider.
A Low-stress Way to Switch
There is no need to close the old email address straight away. In most cases, the best approach is to keep the old address for now and create a new one just for important communication.
A simple plan is:
⒈ Create one new email address (simple instructions below)
⒉ Keep using the old address for less important or older contacts.
⒊ Update the new address with important organisations first, such as:
➡️ myGov / ATO
➡️ Banks
➡️ Super funds
➡️ Investment platforms
➡️ Centrelink
➡️ Doctors and health providers
➡️ Family members
⒋ Leave the old address active while people gradually start using the new one.
What Matters Most
The goal is not to have the most advanced technology.
The goal is to have an email address that is stable, easy to use and unlikely to be affected if an internet provider changes its systems or support arrangements.
For many older Australians, the best result is a simpler, more dependable email address for important messages, with help from family or a trusted adviser during the changeover.
New Gmail Address Instructions
Setting up a new Gmail address in Australia is quick and free. (If you would prefer a different email address, simply google the instructions or ask a trusty tech savvy friend or family member)
Just go to the Google Account Creation page on your browser, enter your personal details, choose a unique email address, create a secure password and accept the terms of service.
Here are the simple step-by-step instructions:
① Go to the sign-up page: Open your web browser and navigate to the Google Account Creation page.
② Enter your details: Type in your first name, last name, and your preferred username (this will be your new email address, e.g., your.name@gmail.com).
③ Create a password: Choose a strong password and enter it into both fields to confirm.
④ Verify your phone number: Google will require you to enter an Australian mobile number to verify the account. They will text you a 6-digit code to enter on the screen.
⑤ Add recovery details (optional but recommended): Enter an existing email address and your date of birth to help you recover the account if you ever forget your password.
⑥ Accept the terms: Review the privacy and terms, click “I agree”, and your new inbox will instantly be ready to use.
Extra Steps
Enable Two-Step Verification (Highly Recommended)
This stops hackers from accessing your account even if they know your password.
① Go to your Google Account Dashboard.
② Click Security on the left menu.
③ Scroll to “How you sign in to Google” and click 2-Step Verification.
④ Click Get Started and enter your password.
⑤ Choose your mobile number to receive text message codes.
⑥ Enter the test code sent to your phone to turn it on.
Add Gmail to Your Mobile Phone
Keep your new inbox with you on the go.
➡️ For iPhone/iPad: Download the Gmail app from the App Store. Open it, tap Sign in, select Google, and enter your details.
➡️ For Android: Go to your phone’s Settings > Passwords & Accounts > Add Account > Google, then sign in.
Import Contacts from an Old Email
Move your existing contact list to your new account automatically.
① Open Gmail on a computer and click the Settings gear icon (top right) > See all settings.
② Click the Accounts and Import tab.
③ Look for the Import mail and contacts section and click the link.
④ Type in your old email address (e.g., BigPond, Outlook, Yahoo) and follow the prompts to log in and sync them.
We hope this helps make you feel more confident setting up a new email address. If you’re still struggling, enlist one of your tech-savvy friends or family members!
