Child Safety

Digital Safety Skills

The Federal Government has taken a big step towards realising its ambitious plan to get children and young teenagers off social media. After first announcing legislation to set a minimum age for social media use in September, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that the age would be set at 16. With support from both major parties, the government aims to pass the legislation by the end of the year. However, questions remain about how this will be implemented.

In the meantime, it’s crucial to equip children with skills to navigate digital spaces safely. Here are some strategies:

• Set Online Boundaries: Teach children to avoid sharing personal details like their address or school name. Encourage the use of strict privacy settings on social media.
• Spot Red Flags: Help them recognise risky behavior online, such as messages from strangers or being asked to keep secrets.
• Establish Safe Habits: Promote secure passwords, healthy screen time limits, and avoiding suspicious links.
• Respond to Risks: Teach children to block or report inappropriate users and to talk to a trusted adult if they feel unsafe.
• Foster Open Communication: Encourage ongoing conversations about their online experiences, ensuring they feel comfortable seeking help when needed.

These strategies empower children to become safer, more responsible digital citizens as we navigate new regulatory changes.

Mr Dean Owens

Head of Wellbeing and Learning Enrichment

Child Safety Champions

As part of School processes, we regularly reviewed and updated our policies and procedures typically every two years or whenever changes are necessary to support child safety and wellbeing.

With the introduction of the new Child Safe Standards in Victoria in July 2022, the School has recently undertaken a process of consultation and updates to several key documents. Over the next two years, we will continue to engage students, parents, and staff in reviewing and providing feedback on Child Safety in the School. These discussions are aimed at continuing to foster a child-safe culture within our community. 

The School has recently expanded the number of Child Safety Champions available to students. We encourage any student who feels unsafe to reach out to one of the School's Child Safety Champions for support.

Policy and Guideline Updates 

There have been several additions or updates to the following policies and guidelines. These policies and guidelines can be found via Parent HTConnect or the School Website.

1. Child Safety Policies
2. Student Mobile Phone Guidelines
3. Concussion Policy
4. CCTV Policy
5. Dogs in School Policy
6. Electronic Signature Guidelines
7. Library Code of Behaviour Policy
8. Plagiarism Policy
9. Work Experience Policy

Further Information

If you have any questions about Child Safety and Wellbeing at the School, please contact either one of the Child Safety Champions or email childsafety@huntingtower.vic.edu.au

Ms Di Goodsall

Human Resources Officer