Graham Perrett (Moreton, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I also rise to speak on the Cybersafety for seniors: A worthwhile journey report following on from the deputy chair, the member for Mitchell. Throughout history there have been various revolutions—from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age, from the age of Enlightenment to the Industrial Revolution—and we are now right in the middle of the digital age or information age. Information is doubling almost every six months, whereas earlier it took thousands of years for humanity's information to double.

Like all new technologies, in the wrong hands—be it a bronze sword or a spear—new technologies in the wrong hands can be dangerous. We do recognise that. However, used skilfully, the digital age—the internet—can bring enormous benefits to all Australians, particularly seniors. We heard in our inquiry, from around the country, the great benefits that come from people being skilled up, trained and offered the benefits of the internet, whether it be banking, looking at families or grandchildren or sharing information about hobbies.

Sadly, we also heard that Australians are targets for criminals. We are a wealthy country and we have a lot of superannuants who have money set aside for their retirements, and people around the world know this. Unfortunately, the internet means criminals can be right next door rather than come across the seas. This report is a timely reminder, but it indicates the great boon that comes with having a National Broadband Network and making the internet available for all Australians, particularly senior Australians.

I would like to commend the chair, Senator Bilyk, for her work, the deputy chair, the member for Mitchell, and all members of the committee, and commend the report to the chamber.

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