Are you Australia's next Stay Smart Online agent?

Today the Australian Government and 2011 Victorian of the Year Father Bob Maguire have launched a national agent search to encourage Australians to Stay Smart Online.

To help people understand the simple steps they can take to protect themselves online, the  launch video explains how two Australians will become the first Stay Smart Online agents and be the face of National Cyber Security Awareness Week commencing 4 June 2012.

The agents will become the stars of a Stay Smart Online video series to be released in early 2012. The agents will also participate in events and activities hosted by the government and partners during the week.

With @FatherBob having a following of more than 50 000 users on Twitter, Father Maguire is aware of the risks and challenges that Australians face spending more time online.

"People have to be alert online. You have a duty to play a role on the internet in the same way you would in a real community," Father Maguire said.

Mr Abul Rizvi, Deputy Secretary of Digital Economy and Services at the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy said the agents would play a valuable role in educating Australians to be responsible online.

"Whether we are using computers, smartphones, tablets or game consoles, talking with family and friends about online safety is the first step to being secure online.

"The agents will be an important part of the Australian Government's 2012 National Cyber Security Awareness Week and we hope this initiative will help reinforce the importance of smart behaviour online," Mr Rizvi said.

To submit an application, entrants must create a short video demonstrating how they are cybersafe and why they should be the next Stay Smart Online agent. Entries will close on Friday 14 February 2012. To submit a video and find more information on the terms and conditions, visit  staysmartonline.gov.au/agents.

Two agents will be selected by a judging panel of government representatives and industry professionals.

 Stay Smart Online is an Australian Government initiative, supported by the National Cyber Security Awareness Week, held annually in partnership with more than 500 industry, consumer and community organisations, and all levels of government.

For easy to understand information and safety tips for personal internet users, small businesses and schools visit  www.staysmartonline.gov.au.

Date: 16 December 2011
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Document ID: 144033 | Last modified: 20 December 2011, 1:38pm