Keep our Mob Safe Online is part of the National Online Safety Awareness campaign. Its purpose is to help anyone who spends time with children aged 5 to 18 understand the importance of starting the chat about online safety with young people.
Julie Inman Grant, national eSafety Commissioner warns with technology changing so fast, it is vital parents, teachers and all those who care for children are equipped with up-to-date, accurate and easy-to-follow information.
New research shows that more Aussie kids than ever are having negative online experiences, including cyberbullying, unwanted contact from strangers and social exclusion yet many parents, carers and educators are unsure how to help keep kids safety online.
“Online bullying can take many forms including name calling, unwanted messages, as well as threats and content posted without consent – and we are sending a strong message that it’s never ok,” Julie Inman Grant said in an interview.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth’s online experience is worse than the rest of the community and this has a detrimental impact on their mental well-being, their identity and can also impact on their lives.
At the last census nearly 70% of indigenous households nationally were accessing internet. Statistics also reveal that 88% of Indigenous people have seen examples of racism online.
More than 800 community organisations and schools across the country are slated to receive the Keep our Mob Safe Online pack. The pack includes community posters and information booklets to help Indigenous communities understand the issues of online safety, with practical information on where to go for help.
The resources are supported by a series of video case studies showcasing how Aboriginal and Torres Strait families and educators are talking about online safety.
For more tools, tips and resources to keep your Mob Safe Online visit eSafety.gov.au.
