Four in five young Australians use smartphones to connect to the internet wherever they go, while their use of WiFi hotspots has doubled since June 2011, reveals new research from the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner, in partnership with the Australian Communications and Media Authority.
‘Safer Internet Day is the perfect opportunity to reflect on these latest findings and helps remind the community about the importance of exploring safely online in an increasingly connected world,’ says Commissioner Alastair MacGibbon.
The new research further reveals 83 per cent of young people go online three or more times a day, indicating a strong trend that accessing the internet is becoming an increasingly common experience for the next generation.
‘We know young people are going online now more than ever, and now, more than ever, we need to rise to the challenge of ensuring their online experiences are positive. The Office invites all Australians to partner with us in playing our part for a safer internet,’ says MacGibbon.
More than 20,000 school students across Australia are expected to participate in a special Safer Internet Day presentation through the Office’s Virtual Classrooms to help students understand the possible consequences of posting images online; be a good bystander; communicate online respectfully; and understand how to report inappropriate material and contact online.
The Office is hosting a range of resources for schools and the community to help participate in Safer Internet Day, including an infographic and poster and the latest version of the Cybersmart Detectives resource – an interactive multimedia class activity – will also be run by schools across Australia, helping students aged 9 to 10 explore what may happen if someone reveals too much information online.
'By helping young Australians develop the skills they need to have enjoyable, safe experiences online, we’re working to ensure every day of the year is a safer day to explore the internet,’ says MacGibbon.
Safer Internet Day is an international initiative celebrated in more than 90 countries. To get involved or to find out more information, visit our SID page.