Safer Internet Day 2026: Building safer and more confident digital communities across Queensland

Tuesday 10 February 2026 is Safer Internet Day, marked by more than 180 countries as a reminder that creating a safer and more respectful online world is a shared responsibility. As digital technologies evolve—particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence—the need for strong digital literacy, critical thinking and online safety skills continues to grow. 

The internet is central to how we learn, connect, work and access essential services. But it also presents risks that can affect anyone. Recent findings from the Cybercrime in Australia 2024 report show that online crime remains widespread, with nearly half of Australians (47.4%) experiencing at least one type of cybercrime in the past year, and almost two thirds (63.9%) experiencing it at some point in their lives. 

Online abuse and harassment continue to be the most prevalent form of harm, affecting more than a quarter of respondents in the previous 12 months, while identity crime, malware, scams and data breaches also remain significant issues. The report highlights that some groups—including First Nations respondents, people who speak a language other than English at home, LGB+ communities, and people with restrictive health conditions—experience disproportionately higher rates of cybercrime.

These realities emphasise the importance of digital inclusion work across Queensland, where building digital capability must go hand in hand with supporting safe, ethical and confident use of technology.

State Library of Queensland’s Digital Inclusion branch is committed to providing that support to regional and remote communities through the Digital and You program.  

Working closely with public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs), the program delivers free and practical digital learning that integrates online safety, foundational digital skills and emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence. 

Whether participants are setting up a new device, learning to protect personal information, refining their ability to spot misinformation or experimenting with creative AI tools, every session is designed to build confidence, reduce fear and foster safer digital habits.

Michelle Carter, Director, Digital Inclusion, says the focus is on equipping communities with the skills they need to navigate the digital world with awareness and assurance.

‘Technology changes quickly, and people need support that grows with it. Our goal is to build communities where everyone feels capable of navigating digital spaces—where they understand not just how things work, but how to stay safe, protect themselves and support others,’ she said.

As AI becomes more embedded in everyday tools, Michelle explains why online safety and digital literacy must be considered holistically.

‘Digital literacy today also means knowing how to spot misinformation, understanding how your data is used, and recognising when something online isn’t what it seems. AI has incredible potential, but it also makes these skills more important than ever. When people understand both the benefits and the risks, they’re able to use technology in ways that enrich their lives rather than overwhelm them.’

Michelle says one of the most positive outcomes of the Digital and You workshops is the moment when participants begin to feel more assured in their ability to navigate online spaces.

‘When someone realises they can recognise a scam, question an AI generated image, or understand why a message doesn’t feel right, you can see their confidence shift immediately. It’s empowering. People walk away feeling safer—and more in control of their digital world.’

As we mark Safer Internet Day 2026, Queenslanders of all ages are encouraged to reflect on their digital habits, support those around them, and take steps to make online spaces safer and more respectful. 

Communities, families, schools and workplaces can all play a role by sparking conversations and encouraging others to build their digital skills and stay safe online.

Get involved and access free digital learning

Check how to get involved at the Safer Internet Day hub on the eSafety Commissioner website. 

Find a free digital skills workshop in your local area by downloading the Digital and You app.

Access free self paced learning tools through State Library’s Digital and You skills hub.

State Library’s Digital and You program is supported by the Department of Customer Service, Open Data and Small and Family Business.