From social media and gaming to messaging apps, children are spending more time online than ever before.
A new bilingual story created by Central Australian community members is helping young people recognise unsafe situations, think critically about what they see and know when to ask for help.
'The Wise Emu and the Digital Dingo in Paradise' uses language, culture and storytelling to help children navigate the online world safely.
Developed by Aboriginal community members, the Northern Territory Department of Children and Families and the Australian Federal Police-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, the bilingual picture book is written in English and Western Arrernte and features familiar Central Australian landscapes and characters.
Acting Department of Children and Families Chief Executive Officer Karen Broadfoot said the new resource helps children build the skills and confidence they need to stay safe online.
"Children are spending more time online than ever before, and it's important they have the skills and confidence to stay safe.
"Every child deserves access to information that helps keep them safe, regardless of where they live or the language they speak."
Department of Children and Families Project Lead Monika Jednous said the resource helps families start important conversations about online safety.
"We wanted to create a resource that helps families talk about online safety in a way that feels meaningful, relatable and culturally safe.
"When information reflects people's language and culture, they're more likely to engage with it and use it."
The story follows a young kangaroo named Jarra after he is asked to share personal photographs online. With support from trusted adults and friends, he learns how to protect his personal information and seek help when something doesn't feel right.
Department of Children and Families Aboriginal Practice Advisor and local Arrernte woman and illustrator Becky Myers said she wanted children to see themselves and their communities reflected in the story.
"I wanted children and families to see places they recognise and connect with these throughout the story," Ms Myers said.
"By featuring local landscapes and familiar surroundings, I hope children see themselves reflected in the book and feel connected to its important message about staying safe online."
Remote Family Support Worker and Western Arrernte translator Maxine Malbunka said sharing the story in language would help important safety messages resonate with local children and families.
"Having the story in Western Arrernte helps get the message across more strongly," Ms Malbunka said.
"I hope it encourages families to talk with their children about staying safe online and helps young people know they can always seek help from someone they trust."
Senior Aboriginal Community Worker Cassandra Stuart said the project showed the value of bringing culture, language and community knowledge together.
"I wanted to be involved because this project is about protecting children and supporting families," Ms Stuart said.
"Bringing language, culture and community knowledge together has created a resource that can help children understand online safety in a way that feels meaningful and familiar."
The project is more than a book. It includes yarning cards, classroom activities and lesson plans that help families, schools and communities start important conversations about online safety before problems arise.
The book and supporting resources are available at Wise in Paradise: First Nations Online Safety Resources here
