NetAlert National Cybersafe Programme—additional funding

Internet safety agency NetAlert will receive $2 million over two years to run a training roadshow and information campaign for parents and community groups to help keep children safe online.

“This funding is part of the Australian Government’s $30 million National Child Protection Initiative election commitment to protect Australian children and families from sex criminals,” the Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan said.

The roadshow and information campaign will kick off shortly and will aim to educate parents, teachers and community groups about the risks children face online and provide them with information on keeping children safe on the Internet, including chat rooms.

“Parents, teachers and the broader community will benefit from the increasing range of advice available on Internet safety,” Senator Coonan said.

“The National CyberSafe Programme is a clear demonstration of the Australian Government’s commitment to protecting children from exposure to offensive or illegal online content.

“Community education is just one element of the Government’s approach to cracking down on illegal and offensive content online. We will continue to educate, legislate and regulate to protect Australian children when they are using the Internet.”

The National CyberSafe Programme will build upon the community advisory services and education work currently undertaken by the Government-funded Internet safety body NetAlert and the Australian Broadcasting Authority.

The funding for NetAlert complements other funding being provided under the National Child Protection Initiative to the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

The AFP will work with NetAlert to train parents and teachers about the dangers confronting children online and inform them of appropriate measures to take to make their Internet experience a safe one.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jane McMillan 0438 690 305