Navigating the digital world
Resources to help young people with disability explore the internet with awareness, confidence, and independence.
The internet is an incredible tool – it connects us with friends, helps us learn new things, and provides endless entertainment. But it also comes with risks, and young people with disability can be particularly vulnerable to online dangers like scams, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content.
Understanding how to stay safe online is just as important as learning how to navigate the real world, and thankfully, there are several resources out there to help young people with disability build their digital safety skills, set boundaries, and gain confidence in managing their online interactions. Whether it’s learning how to spot a scam, protect personal information, or handle unwanted messages, the right tools can make a huge difference. Here’s a roundup of some great resources and services to support online safety.
ONLINE SAFETY ACADEMY FROM ENDEAVOUR FOUNDATION
This free resource from Endeavour Foundation is designed specifically for people with intellectual disability. Covering key topics like privacy, scams, and cyberbullying in an easy-to- understand way, the program has been designed with accessibility in mind and includes animation, video content and text to speech activities. The four modules are self-paced, so participants can learn at their own speed and build confidence in navigating the online world safely. It’s a great starting point for developing essential digital skills in simple, engaging way. endeavour.com.au/disability-services/online-resources/online-safety-academy
SECCA INTERNET SAFETY CARDS
SECCA exists to ‘enrich the lives of people with disabilities through education and therapeutic support, in relation to sexuality and relationships’. Among their suite of resources are six free, easy-to- understand cards that cover important topics like privacy, online relationships, scams, and cyberbullying.
Designed to support different learning styles, they can be used as conversation starters or structured lessons to help people recognise risks and make safer choices online. The cards can be stuck around a screen or wall near the computer as a constant reminder, providing cues to support online safety, appropriate behaviours, and safe relationship development. secca.org.au/resources/internet-safety-cards/
INTERACTION SERVICES ONLINE SAFETY TRAINING
This online training educates young people with intellectual disability and their support networks to navigate online safety concerns and empowers them to have safe and positive experiences online. Developed in collaboration with Australia’s leading cyber safety experts, ySafe, the training is available on a custom-built learning platform that includes accessibility features such as AUSLAN interpretation, visual tools and audio media to support users with diverse learning needs. interactionservices.org/online-safety
eSAFETY GUIDE – eSAFETY COMMISSIONER
As a parent or carer, it’s almost impossible to keep up with the endless stream of apps, games, and social media platforms that our teens and young people are using. That’s where the eSafety Guide from the eSafety Commissioner comes in. This regularly updated resource provides clear, easy-to-understand information on the latest platforms, including their safety features, privacy settings, and potential risks. It’s a go-to tool for parents, carers, and young people looking to navigate the digital world with confidence, making it easier to set boundaries and encourage safe online habits. esafety.gov.au/key-topics/esafety-guide
GOOD THINGS
Good Things Australia is all about bridging the digital divide, helping people of all abilities build the skills and confidence to navigate the online world safely. They run programs and provide resources to support digital inclusion, including training for people with disability, older Australians, and those with limited digital experience. Their work focuses on making technology accessible and empowering individuals to use the internet for education, connection, and independence. Through their network of community partners, they’re helping more people get online and stay safe while doing it. goodthingsaustralia.org
LIFESTART WEBINAR
The Lifestart Keeping Safe Online webinar focuses on helping parents and caregivers teach young people with disability how to navigate the online world safely. It covers practical strategies for setting boundaries, understanding privacy settings, and dealing with risks like cyberbullying. The session provides helpful tips and resources, ensuring families feel confident supporting their loved ones to use the internet in a safe and responsible way. You can access the webinar along with additional resources on their website. lifestart.org.au/keeping-safe-online
GROOMING OR UNWANTED CONTACT
While it’s natural to trust others, the internet connects us to many people, not all of whom have your child’s or young person’s best interests at heart. The eSafety Commissioner has excellent resources for parents on keeping your child safe from unwanted contact online. esafety.gov.au/parents/big-issues/unwanted-contact
