An expanded grants program for young Queenslanders and community organisations designed to stop cyberbullying in its tracks has launched today (23 March 2020).
Minister for Youth Di Farmer said young Queenslanders can now apply for grants to deliver projects addressing cyberbullying, and for the first time, also submit entries to a new cyberbullying creative competition.
Among the creative initiatives funded in the first round of the Palaszczuk Government’s $500,000 Stop Cyberbullying Grants program in 2019 was a rap song by young people at Meadowbrook Headspace, a colourful mural at Taabinga State School and a video by Gladstone PCYC.
“Cyberbullying has no place in our society, and we must do all we can to protect our youth from the harm it causes,” she said.
“Young people have a significant role to play in shaping their online communities and the cyberbullying grants are designed to do just that – to turn ideas into action.
“I’m also pleased to announce today a competition with up to $5000 in prizes available to young people from 10-16 years old. This is your chance to express yourself through whatever medium you want – a video, photo, painting or song.”
Ms Farmer said the initiatives formed part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $3.5 million investment and commitment to protect young people from cyberbullies and to help curb cyberbullying behaviours.
“Now more than ever it is time to speak out and let your ideas be heard,” she said.
“Last year we supported diverse grant initiatives across Queensland to deliver projects within local communities.
“Our youngest applicant was 11-year-old Florence who partnered with her school’s Parents and Citizens Association and a university to develop an animation about cyberbullying.
“This is an outstanding example of how we can work together to stop cyberbullying.”
Ms Farmer said the grants program and competition were a response to recommendations from the Anti-Cyberbullying Taskforce Report.
“A key recommendation was to include young people in the design and delivery of initiatives – and I couldn’t agree more,” she said.
“That’s why every funded project needs to have included young people in its design.
“Grants are open to young people and to organisations for amounts ranging from $1000 to $5,000.”
Applications close at midnight on 10 May 2020, so get online at:
