Today is Safer Internet Day.
It is a Global Day of Action bringing communities, schools, organisations and families from more than 180 countries together to raise awareness of online safety issues and work towards a safer internet.
You can check out more here on the Federal Government’s e-safety website.
Whether you’re working, learning, playing or scrolling, the internet is a huge part of life.
It opens a world of opportunities, but also comes with risks, especially for young people and other at-risk groups.
The e-safety commissioner reported:
- 70 per cent of Australian adults have had at least one negative experience online.
- 29 per cent of First Nations children have experienced online hate speech.
- 45 per cent of kids aged 8-17 have been treated in a hurtful or nasty way online.
The Culture of Safety Team in partnership with the Priorities, Focus and Advocacy Team have produced new Guidelines for Safe Ministry using digital media.
It is a great resource for those who have online ministries including social media presence, live streaming services, or children and youth programs that include gaming.
More resources are currently being developed and should be available on June 30 this year.
A series of social media tiles around Safer Internet Day have also been created and can be downloaded here.
If you want any further information or support in promoting this important topic, please feel free to reach out:
Candice Coles – Culture of Safety Advisor- Candice.coles@victas.uca.org.au or Kelly Woods (@PastoralHare) – Younger Generations ‑ New & Digital Communities – Kelly.Skilton@victas.uca.org.au