The NSW Government recently launched a new website to encourage responsible digital citizenship among young individuals, in light of the growing amount of time children spend online. The data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics is concerning, as it shows that a significant majority of children, approximately 90%, engage in screen-based activities for at least one hour per week. The increasing trend of children spending over 20 hours online is even more alarming.
The NSW Department of Education’s Cyber Security branch, in collaboration with the Department of Customer Service, has created this website to provide students, teachers, parents, and carers with the necessary tools and information to navigate the digital world in a secure and responsible manner, with a keen understanding of the potential dangers.
This initiative aims to tackle the pressing issue of effectively managing digital footprints, safeguarding privacy, and promoting considerate online conduct. The website assists young individuals in making well-informed choices in an ever-more interconnected world, aligning with the NSW Government’s dedication to cultivating a safer and more constructive digital atmosphere.
The NSW Government is developing this platform in line with its broader digital strategy, which aims to empower individuals with the skills necessary to be responsible digital citizens. This initiative supports the well-being of young people in NSW as they navigate the digital world, with a focus on minimising potential risks associated with online activities. It is a proactive measure.
Charlie Sukkar, Chief Information Officer at the NSW Department of Education, emphasised the importance of these resources, stating, “This website is about equipping students with skills so they can conduct themselves respectfully and responsibly online.”
Sukkar noted that a significant number of young people have experienced online threats or abuse, a situation that warrants concern. Additionally, parents are worried about the potential risks their children may face online. The website offers a range of tools that help students, teachers, parents, and carers navigate the digital world in a safe and thoughtful manner.
The website aims to foster meaningful discussions about digital citizenship. The content covers important aspects such as working together creatively, promoting online safety in gaming, using social media responsibly, being mindful when sharing online, and managing time effectively while using the internet. By deliberately focusing on these aspects, the NSW Government seeks to cultivate essential digital skills in young people, equipping them to confidently navigate an ever-evolving digital landscape.
In addition, the NSW Government introduced a mobile phone ban in public school classrooms in October of the previous year. The aim was to improve educational focus and reduce digital distractions. Since introducing the ban, there has been a significant impact, with 79% of parents observing improved student concentration and 70% reporting better academic performance. This initiative, along with the Digital Citizenship website, highlights the NSW Government’s dedication to creating a safer and more productive digital environment for young people.