National Cyber Security Awareness Week and Cybersafety Summit – helping protect Australians online 30 May 2011

The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy and Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, today launched National Cyber Security Awareness Week 2011.

National Cyber Security Awareness Week is an Australian Government initiative held annually in partnership with industry, consumer and community organisations, as well as all levels of government, to raise awareness about the importance of cyber security and the simple steps people can take to protect themselves online.

Senator Conroy said, “There are more than 500 organisations participating to promote cyber security and cyber safety messages to the Australian community”

“The internet is an integral part of our everyday life whether shopping, socialising or doing business”, Senator Conroy said.

“It is, therefore, important that Australians are able to take full advantage of the benefits offered by the internet in a safe and secure manner, whether they are on their laptop, smartphone or gaming console.”

“I’d like to acknowledge the support of our partners who are participating this week and I encourage everyone to take part in the activities and events being held around the country.”

The Attorney-General Robert McClelland said, “Cyber security is a shared responsibility and Awareness Week demonstrates how the public and private sectors can work together towards helping Australians be safe and secure online.”

Mr McClelland also launched the second edition of Protecting Yourself Online – What Everyone Needs to Know. Over 438,000 copies of the first edition booklet or brochure have been distributed through libraries, internet service providers, community legal centres and government agencies and programs.

This publication brings together information and advice from a range of Australian Government departments and agencies, in one handy booklet, to help all Australians stay safe and secure when using the internet - whether dealing with scams, spam, banking or bullying.

As part of the week’s activities, Senator Conroy welcomed students, parents and teachers to the annual Cybersafety Summit.

“The Cybersafety Summit provides the Government with a great opportunity to consult with young people, parents and teachers on how to keep young Australians safe online,” Senator Conroy said.

Senator Conroy also announced a revised Budd:e Cyber Security Education Package for Australian primary and secondary school students. Budd:e is a key component of the Government’s cyber security awareness initiative that helps Australian children adopt safe and secure online practices and behaviours.

“The updated package now includes more comprehensive resources for teachers and more engaging modules for students.”

Senator Conroy also released the results of the teachers’ survey conducted in 2010.

“Our survey showed that almost two-thirds of all teachers have accessed one or more key cyber safety information sources, including the Australian Government’s own ‘Cybersmart’ website,” Senator Conroy said.

For information on 2011 National Cyber Security Awareness Week events and activities, or a copy of Protecting Yourself Online – What Everyone Needs to Know, visit the Stay Smart Online website at www.staysmartonline.gov.au.