Mobile phones and access to the Internet are an integral part of the digital lives of Australian teens. Owning a mobile phone and having access to the Internet carry an immense responsibility, both for children and parents. A survey conducted by the eSafety commissioner in 2020 came up with the following key findings:

Online lives

• Teens spent an average of 14.4 hours a week online.
• 9 in 10 teens used the internet to research topics of interest, watch videos, chat with friends and listen to music.
• 8 in 10 teens played games online with others.

Social media

• Teens used an average of four different social media services – YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat remain the most popular app/platforms.
• TikTok (formerly Musical.ly) – has shown the greatest growth, from 12% of teens in 2017, up to 38% in 2020.

Parents should be conscious of what their children are up to with their digital lives. Keeping a close eye on the digital profile of your child is paramount. Children should also be aware that any images or videos that are used as part of their digital lives whilst in school uniform allows them to be easily recognisable. It can also impact negatively on the school environment. 

Section 7 of Computer Facilities and External Networks – Acceptable Use by Students Policy highlights a number of areas that cover the correct use of Social Media for students. This Policy is signed by parents and students at the start of every year. A copy is available from the school office upon request.

The eSafety Commissioner has a lot of useful information for parents and students about safe use of the Internet and Mobile Phones. It can be found by accessing the link below: 

https://www.esafety.gov.au/

 We will aim to run a parent information session later in the year around Internet & Mobile Phone usage. We have been in contact with some organisations and are waiting for them to confirm their availability. If at any time you would like to discuss this further, please contact us at school.