Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy
Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy
Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Digital Productivity

Helping keep Australian children safe online

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today launched a new website, www.cybersmart.gov.au.

Senator Conroy said the new website, provided by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), was aimed at keeping Australian children safer online and providing teachers with cyber-safety education resources, and would be an important part of the Australian Government’s Cybersmart education program.

"Although the internet has undoubtedly opened up a world of possibilities and benefits to Australian children, it has also exposed them to continually emerging and evolving dangers that did not previously exist," Senator Conroy said.

"This website will provide parents, teachers, trainee teachers, librarians and children with up-to-date, comprehensive and age-appropriate online cybersafety resources and assistance."

"Tackling cybersafety means helping parents and teachers as well as educating children," Senator Conroy said.

The cybersmart website brings resources and programs together at a single online point, with the Schools Gateway specifically catering to the needs of schools and teachers.

Senator Conroy said the Cybersmart website would also offer a dedicated online helpline and counselling service, provided by Kids Helpline, for children to access professional help in a medium they understand and trust.

The Government’s Youth Advisory Group (YAG) will be consulted regarding ongoing improvements to the Cybersmart website, as will the Consultative Working Group and its sub committee on cyber-bullying.

"The Cybersmart website is part of a national cyber-safety education initiative being implemented by ACMA" Senator Conroy said.

"The program aims to give children, their parents and teachers sound advice on how to best manage online risks so their experiences are safe and positive."

Contact: Emma Dawson 0400 372 738
13 July 2009