From today, eligible non-government organisations (NGOs) can apply for a competitive grant of up to $1 million through the Online Safety Grants Program led by the eSafety Commissioner.
Under the second round of the program, $4.5 million in funding will be awarded to successful applicants to develop services, resources and products that improve the online safety of Australian children.
Over three years, a total of $9 million will be allocated to NGOs to support all-important education initiatives and assistance for parents, community and frontline groups and projects tailored to at-risk communities.
"Our latest research showed one in four young people have had a negative online experience," said eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.
"Education and prevention programs are crucial to help children and young people understand online safety risks, strategies to stay safe online, and how to access support, reporting and referral pathways. This is what the Online Safety Grants Program helps us achieve."
Last year, eight grants were awarded to successful recipients selected from a large pool of high-quality applications. Their projects focused on promoting the positive use of digital technology, encouraging reporting and help seeking, and supporting diverse communities to connect safely.
"We're so pleased to support innovative programs aimed at keeping young people safe online. I encourage NGOs with an interest in online safety to apply," Ms Inman Grant said.
Applications for the second grant round will open from 11:00 am (AEST) today (27 April) and close 5:00pm (AEST) 25 May 2021. Successful applicants will be announced later this year.
