The new Coalition Online Safety Working Group is an important initiative that will help prepare parents and carers to better protect children from the risks associated with the internet and social media, said the Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan today.
2 February 2012
The new Coalition Online Safety Working Group is an important initiative that will help prepare parents and carers to better protect children from the risks associated with the internet and social media, said the Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan today.
“It is estimated that 2.2 million Australian children are actively online, which is a huge number and my concern is that many parents aren’t equipped to deal with this challenge”, said Mr Tehan.
“Many children have already been adversely impacted by online bullying and there are real concerns about privacy and young people having access to sites which are inappropriate for them.”
“The modern online environment is not just websites and email, but it now includes social media sites, SMS messaging, skype, apps and games. These are all now easily accessible by children through ipods, tablets and mobile phones.
“The children and teenagers of today are the first generation of young people that will grow up with the internet and social media as an integral part of the way they live, learn and communicate, however parents and teachers are concerned about the risks children face online.”
“The new Coalition Online Safety Working Group will consult with key technology, education and cyber-safety leaders, parents and young people, as well as other interested parties, to further develop its online safety policy with a focus on education, regulation and enforcement.
“The Coalition is not seeking to repeat Labor’s attempt to put a filter on the internet or to hinder the dynamic nature of the online environment, but we do want to assist parents and teachers in their work of protecting our children and preparing them for adulthood.
“I am encouraging all parents, carers and teachers to let me know of their experiences in dealing with protecting their children or pupils online. This information will then help the Working Group make the best recommendations and develop a relevant and informed policy”, said Mr Tehan.
“Parents, carers and teachers wanting to make submissions to the Working Group should contact me at dan.tehan.mp@aph.gov.au or via my website www.dantehan.com.au.”
-ENDS-
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