Qld govt to fund cyber safety education in schools

The Queensland Government is set to subsidise cyber safety resources for hundreds of schools across the state in a bid to reduce cyberbullying.

The government’s $1 million investment, along with a $300,000 contribution from Dolly’s Dream, will see the Alannah & Madeline Foundation deliver its eSmart Digital Licences and teacher resources, specifically designed for prep to Year 9 students, to up to 400 schools over the next four years. The initiative will also see 100 schools access the eSmart Schools Framework Program, which aims to “support a positive and inclusive culture, improve cyber safety and help reduce cyberbullying and bullying”, according to the Queensland Department of Education’s website.

Schools selected to participate in the program can also access two cyberbullying and bullying workshops, aimed at students, parents and teachers. 

The interactive programs represent a combined value of up to $6000 per school, with selected schools also expected to receive $5500 to support implementation.

It comes after the Queensland Anti-Cyberbullying Taskforce recommended the Queensland Government “deliver evidence-based, whole-school programs that: promote social and emotional competencies among students, include evaluation programs of impact and provide professional development for teachers”, according to the government’s progress report.

“Cyberbullying means the troubles young people experience through the day don’t end at the school gate,” Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

“We want to see responsible and capable school students who are safe from bullying,” she said.

“This is just one of the ways we can reach all corners of our state and further educate our children that cyberbullying is unacceptable, it’s hurtful and it’s dangerous.”

The initiative will prioritise rural and regional schools; however, the government invited all Queensland schools to apply.

Applications are open until 15 March 2020.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Rido