Schools program to promote cyber-smart behaviour in Queensland

Photo of Senator Stephen Conroy

Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy

Schools program to promote cyber-smart behaviour in Queensland

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, has welcomed the Queensland launch of an innovative online safety program to teach children how to be responsible cyber-citizens.

"Raising awareness of online safety is critical in ensuring children enjoy safe and positive internet experiences, and know how to protect themselves from risks," Senator Conroy said.

"Cybersmart Detectives is an exciting, interactive online activity where children work online in real-time to solve an internet-themed problem. The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) will be providing the program free-of-charge to schools."

The Australian Government has committed $125.8 million to a comprehensive range of cyber-safety measures, including law enforcement, filtering and education, over the next four years. Measures include:

  • expanded online child protection capacity for the Australian Federal Police;
  • ISP level filtering of illegal material such as images of the sexual abuse of children;
  • a new educational web site specifically for children;
  • education resources and a dedicated cyber-safety helpline;
  • expand terms of reference for the Cyber-Safety Consultative Working Group;
  • further Australian research into the online environment; and
  • a Youth Advisory Group to ensure programs remain relevant and on target.

Senator Conroy commended ACMA for its cyber-safety initiatives that provide educational resources, advice and support for children, teachers, families, and library staff across Australia.

"Through Cybersmart Detectives, children in their last year of primary school will learn about some of the risks associated with internet use and important internet safety messages, like not giving out personal information online," Senator Conroy said.

"This is just one of a number of Australian Government initiatives aimed at creating a safer online environment for all Australian children."

Cybersmart Detectives is currently running each week in Western Australia and Victoria.

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Date: 12 September 2008
Contact: Tim Marshall 0408 258 457