[news release] When a group of high-school friends post a rumour about a rival, it sparks a chain reaction that leaves no one untouched. Cyberbullying, sexting, filmed fights and police action follow – will these friends be Tagged forever?A short film developed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s Cybersmart program, Tagged is a drama for Australian teenagers that explores cyberbullying, sexting, digital reputation and personal responsibility. These themes are crucial to maintaining positive online behaviour and experiences while growing into adulthood. Featuring a teenage cast. Tagged is aimed at an audience 14 years old and over.The trailer for Tagged is now online at www.cybersmart.gov.au/Tagged.aspx in anticipation of the film’s online premiere on 23 September.Tagged encourages students to discuss the ethics of online life including the impact of cyberbullying on others, digital reputation management and how online interactions may have real life consequences. The film will be complemented by flexible lesson plans, activities and character interviews which promote adopting positive online behaviour.’Sometimes teenagers who film intimate behaviour, a fight, tag a private photograph, or make offensive comments and publish this material online do so in the heat of the moment and act without being fully aware of the consequences,’ said ACMA Deputy Chairman, Richard Bean.’Tagged is a frank, realistic drama that will help teenagers understand how their online actions can all too easily have real life consequences, and then make the right decisions before posting material online.’For more information on the Cybersmart program, visit www.cybersmart.gov.au.# # #The ACMA is Australia’s regulator for broadcasting, the internet, radiocommunications and telecommunications. The ACMA’s strategic intent is to make communications and media work in Australia’s public interest. For more information: www.acma.gov.au.
http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_410103