Suncorp is helping bridge a growing “digital divide” faced by vulnerable Australian children with a million-dollar donation to the Smith Family.

The charity is delivering hundreds of Digital Inclusion Packs to families across the country, giving them access to a device, internet connection and technical support to help navigate schooling at home.

“A lack of access to online learning platforms could have a lasting impact on a child’s education,” Suncorp Group CEO Steve Johnston said. “Suncorp’s partnership with The Smith Family is a significant step towards ensuring that doesn’t happen.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has put a concerning spotlight on the growing number of children without access to the basic tools and support they need to effectively study from home.

Research suggests a third of the lowest-income households don't have access to the internet, a major barrier and risk for vulnerable children as schools encourage students to stay at home this term.

Nearly a quarter of the 50,000 students on The Smith Family’s flagship Learning for Life program have no access to a home computer with reliable internet access, the charity says.