text-only site

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy,Senator Stephen Conroy, has welcomed a new Australian Communication and Media
Authority (ACMA) cybersmart initiative 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. 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:

1. expanded online child protection capacity for the Australian Federal Police;
2. ISP level filtering of illegal material such as images of the sexual abuse of children;
3. a new educational web site specifically for children;
4. education resources and a dedicated cyber-safety helpline;
5. expand terms of reference for the Cyber Safety Consultative Working Group;
6. further Australian research into the online environment; and
7. 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.

In addition, ACMA has worked closely with the Australian Libraries and Information
Association and public library representatives to develop a range of cyber safety materials that will be delivered to every public library in Australia.

The information pack contains resources that will assist library staff in promoting safe internet use by children in public libraries.

'This is just one of a number of Australian Government initiatives aimed at creating a safer online environment for all Australian children,' Senator Conroy said.