The first bi-annual progress report on implementing all 29 recommendations of Queensland’s Anti-Cyberbullying Taskforce – released last October – confirms work is well underway.
The Premier tabled the report in Parliament this morning.
All schools can expect a roll-out of on-line resources for them to combat the menace this term.
A new student Code of Conduct has been developed incorporating the key tools to implement the Report’s recommendations relating to student behaviour in cyber space and in what for so many of them has become a dangerous activity.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said just six months after the Anti-Cyberbullying Taskforce Report ‘Adjust Our Settings: A community approach to address cyberbullying among children and young people in Queensland’ was released, the government was making good progress, but there was still a lot to do.
“Cyberbullying is not a problem that ends at the school gate. Nor is it something that ends at our border,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“Sadly, the misuse of technology has developed faster than our ability to write the rule book.
“Yet that’s what we have to do. We’re writing the rule book.
“Our new Student Code requires all state schools to have a sound, evidence-based whole of school program.
“Schools can access the ‘Bullying. No Way!’ website as a reference guide to help them design and implement programs they consider will work best in their schools.”
Principals will get fact sheets defining their responsibilities in tackling cyberbullying, so they can best devise an action plan to combat the menace and support children and families who are victims from on-line abuse.
In July, a new procedure will be in place in state run residential boarding schools. It will focus on the safety and well-being of children who are away from home.
The contentious use of mobile phones in schools will be left up to individual schools and their P and C’s to define and set the rules. However, the Department of Education has prepared new guidelines for the use of mobile phones and other technology to assist them in making their decision.
Progress on implanting school-based training for children, parents and teachers working with experts in the cyberbullying field to combat the menace is well advanced and it’s anticipated the $1 million funding will be available in Semester 2.
“We all must work together as a community to combat cyberbullying,” the Premier said.
“There is not one thing that will end cyberbullying.
“Therefore, it is critical all sectors of the community take responsibility for their part in preventing and responding to cyberbullying. Only by working together will we ensure a safer on-line environment for our children and young people.”
New Parenting Programs are being developed employing experts in this field to help them understand the breadth and reach of online technology. Giving parents practical advice and more knowledge will assist them to instil in their children how best they can keep safe using social media.
Another of the key recommendations from the Taskforce was the need to include young people in the design and delivery of many of these new initiatives.
“Applications for the $500,000 grants program to fund youth and community groups such as sporting and recreational clubs to better understand cyberbullying, the harm it can cause and what can be done to put an end to it will be open late next month,” she said.
“While Queensland has laws providing five-year jail terms for the worst cases of cyberbullying – the penalty increases to seven years where violence is involved – and legislation prohibiting the sharing of intimate images, much more needs to be done by the Federal Government.
“I want, the right to be forgotten legislation adopted in all states and territories. It is a must do.
“Everyone should have the right to demand internet providers remove posts from their search engines that target individuals and that they find offensive.
“The Prime Minister has promised to consult on this proposal at the next COAG.
“Regardless of the outcome of the May 18 election I want this vital initiative placed firmly on the national agenda at that next meeting.”
To view the report:
