'Closing The Net' podcast
‘Closing The Net’ is a 12-part podcast series that for the very first time takes you inside the world of the Australian Federal Police and those policing the ‘borderless crime’ of online child sexual exploitation.
Hosted by respected Australian actor, Rodger Corser and Caroline Craig, the podcast highlights the work of the ACCCE, which is leading a collaborative response to pursue and prosecute offenders in this crime type and also to remove children from harm.
Throughout the series, listeners will meet some incredible people who dedicate their lives to ending this horrendous crime type – people who work tirelessly to track down and bring online child sex offenders to justice and to protect children, plus those who have a commitment to preventing abuse through education and by providing tools, knowledge and resources.
Research conducted by the ACCCE in 2020 has shown that in Australia today, only around half of all parents talk to their children about online safety. 50% of parents don’t know what to do to keep their kids safe online. Just 3% of parents are concerned about online grooming. And sadly, most believe online child sexual exploitation is too repulsive to even think about.
‘Closing The Net’ is working to change that, showcasing that knowledge is power and that our only chance to eradicate this issue is if we bring a ‘whole-of-community’ response.
The series will provide listeners with an understanding of what constitutes online exploitation and just how easily children can be targeted by anyone from anywhere.
The series also contains tips and advice for parents and carers around how to protect kids online, as well as how to identify and report offensive online behaviour.
Although some listeners may find parts of the content confronting, these are stories that need to be told. The issues they raise need to be acknowledged and talked about by parents, carers, teachers and community members.
To learn more about the podcast and to find the transcripts, visit https://www.accce.gov.au/closingthenet
