Joint Media Release 11th February 2014
This is a joint media release between the Australian Federal Police, Queensland Police Service, Western Australia Police and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia.
Police and Neighbourhood Watch are encouraging the community to work together to promote the responsible use of online technology as part of today’s Safer Internet Day.
Now in its 11th year, Safer Internet Day is celebrated around the globe each February to highlight the importance of safe and responsible use of online technology and mobile technology, especially among young people. This year’s theme is ‘let’s create a better internet together’.
Queensland Police Service, Western Australia Police and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to join the ThinkUKnow cyber safety program this year.
The ThinkUKnow internet safety program delivers interactive training to parents, carers and teachers through schools and organisations across Australia. ThinkUKnow Australia has been developed by the AFP, Microsoft Australia and Datacom, and is supported by the Northern Territory Police and ninemsn.
Since the pilot program commenced in 2009 more than 27,000 parents, carers, teachers, and community members have participated in the initiative. This year is the fifth anniversary of ThinkUknow Australia.
AFP Acting Deputy Commissioner Close Operational Support Tim Morris today welcomed the announcement.
“The AFP welcomes Queensland Police, Western Australian Police and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia to ThinkUKnow and looks forward to working together on this important initiative,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Morris said.
“The AFP, together with our partner agencies, remain committed to ensure the safety of all Australian children online and making the internet a safer environment for our kids”.
“I strongly encourage all parents and young people to visit the ThinkUKnow website on Safer Internet Day to gain valuable information and tips on how to stay in control and learn invaluable online safety skills.”
Detective Superintendent Brian Hay of the Queensland Police Service said the Queensland Police Service has long been committed to the safety of community members online, including the vulnerable groups of children and the elderly.
“As these groups continue to become engaged online at such a rapid pace, it is crucial we complement our existing suite of programs and capabilities in this area with programs that cover issues such as cyberbullying.”
“We welcome the program and look forward to introducing it across the state along with our ‘Who’s chatting to your kids?’ and ‘Fiscal the Fraud Fighting Ferret’ programs,” Detective Superintendent Brian Hay said.
Ingrid Stonhill Chief Executive Officer Neighbourhood Watch Australasia said that Neighbourhood Watch groups have a 30 year history in Australia of working with community.
“By working as part of the ThinkUKnow program, NHWA can strengthen its aim of enabling safer, connected and inclusive communities through Australasia’s on-line community,” Ms Stonhill said.
The ThinkUKnow program was originally developed in the UK by the Child Exploitation and Online protection (CEOP) Centre in 2006. ThinkUKnow, together with its partners, aim to educate both adults and young people about the risks online and how to create a safer online experience for young people.
For further information and resources on the ThinkUKnow initiative or to register your school for a presentation, go to www.thinkuknow.org.au.
Media enquiries:
AFP National Media: (02) 6131 6333
QPS Media: (07) 3015 2444
WA Police Media: (08) 9222 1011
