creating a safer online world for young Australians

by Optus

(Business)

A Global Compact member

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As a key player in Australia’s digital community, Optus is committed to helping build a world of safe and responsible digital citizens, and that includes engaging with young people early in their digital journey.

Project implemented: 2013

Project goal

Optus strives to create digital citizens who can experience the very best of the online world and fulfil their digital potential. Venturing online is not without its risks as the digital world presents many potential hazards such as exposure to inappropriate content and cyber-bullying, along with the anxiety that can arise from constantly being online. Learning to navigate these hazards is an essential step for any young person who wants to also experience the best of what the digital world has to offer.

delivering on

why is this project important?

The digital world provides many opportunities for young people to seek knowledge and explore their creativity. But venturing online is not without its risks as the digital world presents many potential hazards such as exposure to inappropriate content and cyber-bullying, along with the anxiety that can arise from constantly being online. Learning to navigate these hazards is an essential step for any young person who wants to also experience the best of what the digital world has to offer.

Key steps to make it happen

1With Kids Helpline

For primary-aged students, this program helps them to understand the fundamentals of being safe and responsible digitally.

2Digital Thumbprint

At the secondary school level, Optus’ Digital Thumbprint program addresses the digital needs of students.

impact to date

240,000
Primary/secondary students digitally educated.

In 2018 and beyond Optus aims to reach even more students, including in regional Australia, through a blend of face-to-face workshops and videoconferencing technology, and soon will be introducing new digital modules for older student groups in secondary school. Optus also understands the vital role that parents play, so we will be testing and refining Digital Thumbprint workshops for parents, with the goal of launching a pilot program in New South Wales and Victoria.

As a key player in Australia’s digital community, Optus is committed to helping build a world of safe and responsible digital citizens, and that includes engaging with young people early in their digital journey.

Since 2013, Optus has delivered Digital Thumbprint – free educational workshops, digital tools and programs that have supported more than 240,000 primary and secondary school students across Australia to be digitally educated and responsible.

For primary-aged students, our Digital Thumbprint with Kids Helpline program helps them to understand the fundamentals of being a safe and responsible digital citizen.

At the secondary school level, Optus’ Digital thumbprint program addresses the digital needs of students in three modules. Digital Insight covers digital privacy online; Digital Impact covers the impact of the choices students make; Digital Ambition helps students understand how to move from online procrastination to productivity.

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