We, together with the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, are delighted to see a commitment to building and enhancing digital intelligence and media literacy skills in our children and young people.
There is a national imperative to build digital intelligence and empower children and young people to become positive digital citizens who are smart and responsible users of technology.
Digital intelligence is an essential, protective factor that enhances lifelong positive outcomes for children and young people, such as social inclusion and employment, and that reduces the impact and likelihood of online harms such as cyberbullying, trolling and exploitation.
We need a strong regulatory environment, coupled with clear requirements for digital platforms to be proactive in addressing harmful and illegal content and providing additional resources and support for young Australians who experience cyber bullying or image-based abuse.
The announcement today is a positive step in helping to keep our children and young people safe and strong online and in all spaces where they live, learn and play.
We also welcome the move towards embedding safety by design in digital spaces and support the intention to build an online world where children can use technology freely without risk of exposure to online harms.
To help realise the best possible outcomes for children and young people, it is critical that legislative and industry changes are coupled with initiatives that build strength in children and young people, as well as in schools, early childhood settings, families, and support services – and significant consideration for the needs of Australia’s most digitally excluded and disadvantaged families.
We want every Australian primary and middle school student to have access to a comprehensive, Australian curriculum-aligned, and evidence-informed eLearning program that builds their digital intelligence and that empowers children and young people with the skills to live happily, successfully, and responsibly in the digital world. This is fundamental to each person’s ability to effectively and safely use technology today, and in the future.
Our evidence-informed, best practice education programs including eSmart Digital Licence+ and eSmart Media Literacy Lab are best placed to support children and young people to develop these essential skills.
eSmart Digital Licence+ and eSmart Media Literacy Lab are among the most comprehensive digital and media literacy resources available in Australia. Digital Licence+ was developed by the Alannah & Madeline Foundation in partnership with Accenture, the DQ Institute, and Two Moos.
More information
For further information on Dolly’s Dream and the Alannah & Madeline Foundation’s recommendations on improving online safety and digital intelligence, see:
- Dolly’s Dream Response to Inquiry into Social Media and Online Safety
- Alannah & Madeline Foundation Response to Inquiry into Social Media and Online Safety
Media contact
Deb Morris
[email protected]
0499 202 001