28 June 2004
92/04INTERNET SAFETY EDUCATION MOVES TO THE CLASSROOM
Teachers in schools across Australia will soon receive a helping hand in educating students about the safe and responsible use of the Internet.
NetAlert today launched its CyberSafe Schools project which provides useful resources for teachers, including a quick reference guide and an information booklet, A Teacher's Guide to Internet Safety.
To provide additional support and advice for teachers, NetAlert has also created an online resource at http://www.netalert.net.au/schools.
This is an important project which highlights the value of including Internet safety education in the school curriculum.
CyberSafe Schools provides strategies to help teachers to minimise and manage potential online risks and will enable students to develop Internet safety skills which can be applied at home and at school.
The Howard Government strongly supports Internet education initiatives, such as the Cybersafe Schools Project, which are important in making the online environment safer for children.
I will be writing shortly to State and Territory education ministers to encourage them to draw the attention of their schools to the resources available through NetAlert.
In 1999, the Government established NetAlert and continues to fund the organisation as the independent body under the Online Content Co-Regulatory Scheme to promote a safer Internet experience.
CyberSafe Schools raises awareness and provides valuable information for teachers. It builds on NetAlert's education activities for children, with a website, www.nettysworld.com.au, launched in February this year to mark Safer Internet Day.
The Nettysworld website is designed to educate children about safe Internet practices while helping them to realise the many advantages of going online.
As part of its community education role, NetAlert also offers free advice to parents, teachers, children and industry bodies on its website at www.netalert.net.au.
In addition, NetAlert operates a toll free Internet safety helpline on 1800 880 176.
Media Contact: Carina Tan-Van Baren (02) 6277 7480 or 0439 425 373
