NO MORE partners with Port Power and Centacare for e-safety

A powerful new program designed to help young people navigate the online world safely was recently launched at the Port Adelaide Football Club in Alberton.

Developed in partnership with Power Community Limited, Centacare Catholic Community Services, CatholicCare Northern Territory and the eSafety Commissioner – Power UP is an innovative digital initiative aimed at equipping students aged 15 to 17 with knowledge and skills to stay safe online.

The launch event featured an inspiring line-up of speakers, including Dr Charlie King AM, renowned Gurindji sports commentator and anti-family violence advocate, who spoke about the importance of fostering respect and safety – both online and in the Community. 

Dr Jonathon Louth, Director of Strategy, Research and Innovation at Centacare, took attendees through a live demonstration of Power UP, showcasing its interactive features and real-world application. Senator Karen Grogan, a passionate Port Adelaide supporter, addressed the event, reinforcing the significance of proactive online safety education, alongside the eSafety Commissioner’s Paul Clark, Executive Manager of Education, Prevention and Inclusion

Port Adelaide player, Willem Drew later spoke to the media, emphasising the growing need for digital education:

“It is a really important issue in society, and something this club does well is providing programs to the community. Online safety is going to get more and more important.”

Dr Charlie King, AM NO MORE Founder features heavily in the NO MORE Resource. Charlie says "The NO MORE module in the Power Up eSafety resource is about giving young people the tools to recognise the warning signs in relationships—but just as importantly, to understand what healthy, respectful relationships look like. We want to empower students to take action, to be upstanders, and to know that they have the power to change the ending."

Along with the NO MORE module there are modules that have been developed by and in East Arrernte with commentary by CCNT staff member Mia Mulladad. Says  Jayne Lloyd, Director, CatholicCare NT " Ensuring that this resource is accessible to young people in remote communities is a critical step in promoting online safety and respectful relationships for all. The Eastern Arrernte module, translated by Mia Mulladad from Ltyentye Apurte, means that young people can engage with these important messages in their first language—because true education happens when people can connect to the content in a way that makes sense to them."

What is Power UP?

Mapped against the Australian curriculum, Power UP is a free, interactive program for schools. Teachers and students are provided with online resources and discussion points around how to enhance online safety and promote digital wellbeing. 

Aimed at students from South Australia and the Northern Territory (but it is open to all students and teachers nation-wide) Power UP is set to open up conversations and to empower young people with the knowledge to stay safe, make informed choices and navigate the digital world with confidence.

Access Power UP here on CentaCare's website: institute.centacare.org.au/school-programs/power-up