2012 Safer Internet Day is a timely reminder that more work needs to be done by parents, carers, teachers and regulators to better protect children and young people from the dangers of the internet, according to Luke Simpkins MP.

Mr Simpkins, who is a member of the Coalition’s Online Safety for Children and Young People Working Group, said that many teachers, parents and carers were struggling to keep up with the changing nature of the internet and social media.

“Five years ago, the online environment was just websites, email and SMS.  Now it includes interactive activities such as social media, skype, facetime, apps and games,’ said Mr Simpkins. 

“Parents understand that their children are growing up in a digital world, yet they are rightly concerned about the risks and vulnerabilities children and young people face online,” Mr Simpkins said. 

Mr Simpkins said that he looks forward to the Coalition’s Online Safety Working Group consulting with key technology, education and cyber-safety leaders, parents and young people, as well as other interested parties, about ways to improve online safety.

“The Working Group is aimed at assisting and equipping parents and teachers in their work of protecting our children and preparing them for adulthood and will include a community forum in Perth on Tuesday, 27th March 2012.”

“I encourage members of the public to email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if they have any feedback on how cyber technology is influencing our local community and if they would like to be involved in the online safety review,” concluded Mr Simpkins.

Ends.

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