Safer Internet Day - safeguarding everyone online
Opinion
In our increasingly digital world, the way we connect, learn and interact has been transformed – but so have the risks.
Each year, Safer Internet Day is marked on the second Tuesday of February to raise awareness about online safety and promote respectful, safe and positive use of the internet for people of all ages. In 2026, this important awareness day falls on February 10 and presents a timely opportunity for our parish communities to reflect on how we can protect children, young people and adults in digital spaces.
The internet brings wonderful opportunities: communication with loved ones, access to education and information, and connection with groups across the globe.
But it also presents challenges, including cyberbullying, online grooming inappropriate content and exploitation, as well as breaches of privacy and harmful social pressures. These risks don’t just affect children; adults are also vulnerable to manipulation, scams and distressing online experiences. It’s vital that we recognise both the promise and the danger of digital life.
Safer Internet Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to make the online world a safer place for everyone. The theme each year focuses on encouraging smarter, safer behaviours online, promoting digital literacy and equipping families, carers and community members with the tools they need to protect themselves and those they care for.
For children and young people, the online world is often an extension of their social lives. While this can foster connection and creativity, it can also expose them to harmful interactions or unsafe content. As adults – whether parents, caregivers, teachers, or parish volunteers – we have a duty to guide and support them in developing healthy online habits, setting boundaries and knowing who to talk to if something doesn’t feel right.
There are many practical ways we can promote safer internet use within our communities, starting with open and ongoing conversations. Talking with children and young people about what they do online – the apps they use, the people they interact with and what makes them feel uncomfortable – helps build awareness and confidence.
Setting respectful screen time boundaries supports wellbeing and reminds users that it’s okay to step back when needed. Protecting privacy is also essential, including learning how to safeguard personal information, use strong passwords and manage digital footprints. Above all, when a child or adult shares a concerning online experience, it must be taken seriously, met with compassion and followed by appropriate support.
Parish communication channels also play an important role in promoting online safety. Parish websites, social media pages, newsletters and email communications can be used to share trusted information, remind parishioners about safe online interactions and warn against scams or fraudulent messages that may appear to come from trusted sources. Clear, consistent communication helps parish communities recognise genuine parish contact, stay alert to suspicious activity and know where to seek advice or report concerns.
Safer internet practices are part of a wider culture of care and protection. In the same way we would speak up about unsafe behaviour in person, we must also encourage the reporting of online abuse, exploitation or harmful interactions. Concerns can be raised with a trusted adult, parent, carer, teacher or parish Safeguarding Contact Person.
Matters involving Church settings should be reported to the Integrity and Safeguarding Department of the Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide. Serious or urgent concerns can also be reported to Child Protection Services, the Adult Safeguarding Unit or SA Police, particularly where there is immediate risk. For online-specific harm, reports can be made to the eSafety Commissioner, Australia’s national authority for online safety.
Every voice matters. Fostering an environment where concerns are heard, taken seriously, and acted upon strengthens the safety of our entire community.
As Safer Internet Day approaches, it’s a timely opportunity to reflect on how we use and engage with the online world. Awareness is an important first step, but lasting safety is built through practical education, shared responsibility and supportive communities.
The Archdiocese’s Integrity and Safeguarding website offers fact sheets, best practice guidelines and other practical resources to support e-safety and responsible online behaviour. By equipping parish families and community members with clear information and confidence to speak up, we can help ensure online spaces remain respectful, safe and protective of the dignity of both children and adults.
Integrity and Safeguarding Department (adelaide.catholic.org.au) P: 8210 8150.
