As young people increasingly engage with sport both on and off the field through digital platforms, sporting organisations have an important role to play in understanding and addressing online safety risks.
To support the sector in navigating this evolving landscape, SportWest, in partnership with the eSafety Commissioner, is pleased to present The Digital Sideline: Online Safety for Young People in Sport.
This webinar will be delivered during Children's Week WA, a national celebration of children's rights that encourages communities to support children to learn, grow and thrive. The 2026 Children's Week theme is based on Article 30 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child: "Children have the right to use their own language, celebrate their culture and practise their religion."
Providing young people with safe and positive online sporting experiences is an important part of ensuring they can participate, connect and belong in ways that respect their rights, wellbeing and identity.
This practical and informative session will explore the latest research, trends and emerging risks affecting young people in sport and provide attendees with the tools and knowledge needed to create safer digital environments.
Attendees will gain insights into:
- Current research, trends and insights into young people's online experiences in sport.
- Types of online harm affecting young people and emerging risks, including AI-related harm.
- How to respond effectively to online safety incidents and support young people who may have experienced harm.
- Practical strategies, tools and resources available to sporting organisations, clubs, coaches, volunteers and parents.
- Guidance on taking images, videos and livestreaming in sport, including privacy, consent and online safety considerations.
As digital communication, social media and online platforms become increasingly embedded in sport, understanding how to identify, prevent and respond to online harms is critical to safeguarding young participants and fostering positive sporting experiences.
This webinar is ideal for:
- Sporting organisation and club administrators
- Coaches, officials and volunteers
- Board members and sport leaders
- Integrity, safeguarding and member protection personnel
- Parents, carers and educators involved in community sport
Participants will leave with greater knowledge, practical resources and increased confidence to help create safer and more inclusive sporting communities for young people.
Whether your role involves governance, coaching, safeguarding, administration or supporting children in sport, this is an opportunity to hear directly from the eSafety Commissioner and strengthen your organisation's approach to online safety and digital safeguarding.
Join us during Children's Week WA and help ensure young people can participate in sport safely, confidently and positively, both online and offline.
