ThinkUKnow will tomorrow pilot a cyber safety session for parents and carers from Cultural and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds during a full day of cyber safety educational sessions at Fairfield High School, Australian Federal Police say.
The day of presentations, delivered by the Australian Federal Police Cyber and Child Safety team and NSW Police will be attended by parents, carers, teachers and students from grades 8 and 9.
The parent session will be the first of its kind delivered using simplified technology concepts and run with the assistance of a Fairfield High School Arabic interpreter.
This pilot program was developed for parents and carers from non-English speaking backgrounds, who like many parents can often be unaware of how their children are using technology. The ThinkUKnow CALD program aims to assist parents in understanding how and why their children use the internet.
A series of factsheets covering young people and technology, staying safe, and protecting personal information have also been developed in several languages.
Acting Superintendent Jayne Crossling from AFP’s Missing Persons and Exploited Children said the ThinkUKnow program aims to bridge the knowledge gap between parents, carers and their children.
"The aim of today’s session was to provide parents and carers from a range of diverse backgrounds who may not have much experience with technology, with the confidence and skills to begin talking to their children about online safety," Acting Superintendent Crossling said.
"One of the simplest ways to start these conversations is to show interest in your child’s activities and find out what they’re doing online.
"Adult and youth sessions are designed to ensure parents, carers and teachers receive complementary information to students providing a holistic approach to online safety at home and school.
Fairfield High School Principal, Charles Borg spoke of the school’s excitement to be part of the program.
"Fairfield High School is excited to be involved in programs like this as they give our students the chance to gain valuable knowledge that is beneficial to their safety and happiness."
ThinkUKnow is a free, evidence-based program drawing on research, technology advances and real police investigations, delivered through information sessions for parents, carers, teachers and young people.
The program is delivered in partnership with between the AFP, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Microsoft and Datacom, and is delivered in collaboration with all State and Territory police and Neighbourhood Watch Australasia.
For further information and to download resources, please visit thinkuknow.org.au .
