Year 8 students and teachers at Gladstone Park Secondary School today got a lesson in internet safety under the Federal Government’s ThinkUKnow Program. Local Member Maria Vamvakinou helped organise the presentation at the school following community concerns about cyber-bullying and internet safety.
“The internet is an important part of our children’s education, but there are risks” Mrs Vamvakinou said. “I am pleased to see that Gladstone Park Secondary School signed up to ThinkUKNow, and also encourage all our local schools to participate in the program. Special thanks go to principal Robert Lamb and his staff for facilitating today’s presentation and the minister’s visit.” The program educates families and school communities about cyber safety, and was developed by the Australian Federal Police with Microsoft and Ninemsn.
The presentations are run by trained volunteers and specialist AFP officers.Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Justice Jason Clare said the AFP run program also helped parents and teachers become aware of the potential risks to children on the internet.
"Awareness is the best weapon against on-line predators” Minister Clare said.
"Children are vulnerable to predators on the internet who seek to exploit them without the knowledge of their parents or teachers.
"Australian research shows about 17.4 per cent of children have experienced at least one issue relating to cyber-safety or e-security. “That's why the Australian Federal Police have developed the ThinkUKnow campaign – to educate families and schools about about internet safety."Mr Clare also encouraged parents, teachers and young people to visit the hinkUKnow website for safety tips and to report abuse at www.thinkuknow.org.au
