| ABA launches ‘Net-Detectives’ Internet safety game 25 September 2003 | |
Australian children can now learn how to chat safely on the Internet, with the Australian launch today of Net Detectives by the Australian Broadcasting Authority. The Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator the Hon. Richard Alston, will formally launch the initiative at International Grammar School, Ultimo.
Originally developed by the United Kingdom based Internet safety body Childnet International in partnership with a number of other community bodies, Net Detectives uses the Internet itself to teach young people key Internet safety messages - especially those related to use of Internet chat rooms. The ABA, by agreement with Childnet, has adapted the activity for use in Australian schools, as part of its program of activities to educate the community about Internet safety.
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Teams of children from IGS, Green Point Christian College, Kincumber Public School, Woodport Public School, Oatley Public School and The Coast Christian School will particpate in the launch. They will play the role of Mr Saunders, a teacher who learns that one of his pupils, Sarah Walker, appears to be being bullied. Guided by a series of clues, children work in teams to solve the mystery of what is concerning Sarah, and why. Along the way they learn some important tips for chatting safely online.
The activity will be managed by a group of Internet safety experts, including representatives of the Internet industry and education, law enforcement and child welfare bodies, who will deliver clues and respond to questions from the virtual 'control room'.
“With more and more families going online all the time, and chat rooms being particularly popular amongst young people, it’s important to understand how to manage the potential risks associated with this activity. In particular, the ABA is concerned children may experience contact from people who are not who they say they are,” said ABA Chairman Professor David Flint.
The key messages of Net Detectives are:
Parents should monitor their children’s use of the Internet, particularly chat rooms;
Children should never give out personal information when they’re chatting online;
If children want to meet face-to-face someone that they have chatted with, they should always take a parent with them.
Professor Flint thanked International Grammar School Principal, Ms Kerrie Murphy, for assisting the ABA with the launch of Net Detectives.
Schools and other bodies who are interested in participating in future Net Detectives activities should send an email to net-detectives@aba.gov.au.
Media contact Donald Robertson, ABA Manager Media and PR on (02) 9334 7980.