A new toolkit launched today by the Government’s eSafety Commissioner will provide schools across Australia with resources to help prevent and respond to online safety issues, creating safer online environments for children across the country.
The eSafety Toolkit for Schools has four key themes-Prepare, Engage, Educate and Respond-and includes more than 25 individual resources with tips for teachers and school administrators on how to respond to online safety incidents, and promote safer online practices across school communities.
Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the Morrison Government welcomes the launch of these practical tools to support schools as they navigate classrooms and schoolyards with an increasing digital presence.
‘We know students are accessing the internet through multiple devices-both at home and at school-which provides valuable educational and social benefits, but can also result in issues such as cyberbullying, inappropriate sharing of images or even grooming by online predators. These situations require proactive and informed management by teachers, school administrators, and parents and carers,’ Minister Fletcher said.
‘The Toolkit compiles independent expert advice providing a range of guidance and practical tips. Like most aspects of raising children, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. I’m confident there are important insights for all school communities to take away to help keep students safe online.
‘The Government is committed to providing practical online safety solutions to schools and families that complement our work to continue enhancing our world-leading online safety policy and legislative frameworks.’
The initiative responds to recommendations from the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, and the Bullying and Cyberbullying Senior Education Officials Working Group.
To access the free toolkit visit: www.esafety.gov.au/toolkit-schools.
