Mobiles, computers potential 'pipelines for perversion': Senator Coonan

The Government has set aside around AU$30 million to protect Australian children from sex criminals. The majority of funds are earmarked for the Australian Federal Police but almost AU$4 million will be spent on promoting safe Internet use through education and prevention programs -- such as NetAlert, the CyberSafe Program.

On Tuesday, Australia joined the international 'Safer Internet Day' to help parents and teachers better understand the risks faced by children when dealing with new technology and teach children how to use the Internet safely.

Senator Coonan praised Safer Internet Day and said that such initiatives are 'vital' to make the Internet a safer place for children.

"While technology has the capacity to transform the way we live and work, with new technological developments comes an increased risk of mobile phones and computers being used as a pipeline for perversion.

"Issues such as harassment, spam, people making inappropriate contact, and the possibility of children accessing unsuitable content are all challenges these organisations and the Australian government are mindful of tackling," Senator Coonan said.