Students encouraged to have their say on Online Addiction
In a rapidly evolving online world where gaming, gambling and excessive screen time amongst young people gathers momentum, Western Australian secondary students are invited to creatively explore the topic of online addiction and its affects in a short film.
This year’s competition is run in conjunction with WA Police Force, Constable Care Foundation and the Commissioner for Children and Young People, and asks students aged 12 – 18 to research and create a short film of up to three minutes on this growing issue.
While the internet has brought many advantages, there are also many risks such as cyberbullying, scams, phishing, cyber fraud, relationship effects, internet compulsions and online predators. The Youth Choices student film competition invites students in teams up to three, to explore these types of issues and its effects both in the short and long term.
Constable Care Foundation CEO David Gribble said the competition enables students to explore the risks of online addiction and find solutions through the safe environment of film.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe, and through their exploration of this very relevant topic, students will learn to identify the many issues and dangers associated with online addiction,” commented Mr Gribble. “Giving students a voice through film will empower them to make safer choices and gain knowledge on how to avoid the pitfalls.”
The top three student films will be announced at an awards ceremony in November 2022 and will share in a prize pool of more than $5000. The winning team will be invited to collaborate with professional filmmakers to develop their vision into the latest Youth Choices interactive product.
The Commissioner for Children and Young People is once again supporting the competition with a Student Choice Award, where students can vote for their favourite film.
The Youth Choices Film Competition registrations are now open, with films due by 10 October 2022.
The competition will be judged by a panel of communications professionals with the top 10 entries showcased at an Awards Ceremony at the WA Screen Academy, Edith Cowan University.
Competition registration details can be found at https://constablecare.com.au/program/secondary/youth-choices-competitions/
For images, interviews or further information, please contact:
Diane Ainsworth, Corporate Affairs and Marketing Manager
Constable Care Child Safety Foundation
041 2000 606 or diane@constablecare.com.au
