Participate in review of online safety for children

Senator Stephen Parry invites parents, carers and teachers to participate in review of online safety for children

Senator Stephen Parry said the new Coalition Online Safety Working Group is an important initiative in helping equip parents and carers better protect children and young people from the risks associated with the internet and social media

“It is estimated that 2.2 million Australian children actively engage online. This is a large number and my concern is that many parents aren’t equipped to deal with this challenge,” said Senator Parry.

“We know that many children have been tormented by online bullying and there are real issues about privacy and young people having access to sites which are inappropriate for them.”

“Many of the parents and teachers that I engage with feel trapped by the changes that are occurring. On one hand they know that today’s children and young people will grow up in a world interconnected as never before, and on the other hand, they rightly feel concerned about the risks and vulnerabilities children and young people face online.”

“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.”

Senator Parry said the new Coalition Online Safety Working Group would 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 in the areas of education, regulation and enforcement.

“In forming this Working Group, 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 and equip parents and teachers in their work of protecting our children and preparing them for adulthood.”

“I am asking parents, carers and teachers to let me know their experiences in dealing with the challenge of protecting their own children or pupils from the dangers of the internet, so that it can help the Working Group make the best recommendations.”

Parents, carers and teachers wanting to make submissions to the Working Group should contact me via email – senator.parry@aph.gov.au or post – 33 George St, Launceston 7250.
Senator Stephen Parry Liberal, Tasmania Deputy President of the Senate