Doug PollardRainbow Network Gets webWise
Minister Youth Affairs Ryan Smith
Victorian Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith announced Tuesday that Rainbow Network Victoria will receive additional funding as part of, a new cyber safety initiative known as webWise to assist young people to stay safe online.
Mr Smith said the $3.6 million initiative was developed in response to growing community concern around the challenges young people face online.
Welcoming the initiative, the member for Prahran, Clem Newton-Brown said. “Cyber bullying, social media risks and 'sexting' are key issues this initiative will tackle through workshops and training delivered by young peer educators who have expertise in cybersafety,”
Other strategies include the development of tailored resources such as plain English 'tip sheets' designed for people with a cognitive disability as well as easily accessible information for parents and carers, tailored video podcasts and interactive displays.
The four-year initiative is designed to educate young people up to the age of 25 to be smart, safe and responsible when using the internet and other technologies.
Rainbow Network will recruit, train and support young peer educators who will deliver education and training to their peers in online and offline environments.
“GLBTI youth rely on the internet to connect with other young people experiencing similar attractions, especially in rural and remote areas,” Mr Newton-Brown said
“This initiative will help ensure gay and lesbian teens and young adults are able to interact safely online during a critical time in their lives.”
Six community organisations, including Rainbow Network, will each receive $200,000 in the first phase of the four-year initiative.
