The Queensland Government is tackling cyberbullying head on with a $500,000 grants program over two years to support young people and community organisations to play their part.
Minister for Youth Di Farmer said the funding was part of the government’s $3.5 million commitment to protect children from cyberbullies and deliver initiatives to drive real and lasting change.
“Bullying of any kind can have a terrible effect on our children and young people, and cyberbullying is especially damaging,” she said.
“We’re putting $500,000 in grants for young people and community groups to tackle cyberbullying in Queensland.
“Importantly, what these grants will do is give young people a voice, and position them to be part of the solution.
“Young people talk to each other, and they listen to each other. When young people take a stand against cyberbullying, and take on that leadership role amongst their peers, they can have an immense influence for positive change.
“As a government we are absolutely committed to stamping out cyberbullying, but we can’t do it alone.
“There isn’t one single thing that will end cyberbullying, but everyone in the community can help prevent and respond to cyberbullying to make the online environment safer for our children and young people.”
Ms Farmer said the grants program was in response to the Anti-Cyberbullying Taskforce Report released in October 2018.
“This Taskforce was led by Chair Madonna King, and I’m pleased to say my department is leading four of the 29 report recommendations,” she said.
“The report emphasised how important education and awareness of cyberbullying is for parents, carers, and young people, and the community to recognise what cyberbullying actually is, the harm it can cause, and most importantly how we can all help.
“It’s also important that young people especially are part of educating and raising awareness, which is why we’re offering grants of $500 to $1,500 specifically to young people.”
Ms Farmer said we all have a role to play in stopping cyberbullies in their tracks and keeping our children as safe as we can when they are online.
“Let’s work together to create a safer, happier and inclusive environment online and offline for young people,” she said.
The 2019 grants are open from 23 May to 23 June 2019. For full details on how to apply visit www.qld.gov.au/tacklecyberbullying
