Disability social enterprise, The Flagstaff Group, is the first disability organisation to receive an Australian Government grant to tackle online gender-based abuse and violence.
The eSafety Commissioner awarded $314,000 to Flagstaff’s ‘Log On – Play it Right’ program, as part of round two of the women with disability stay safe online.
Selected for its innovative approach and ability to reach one of the most at-risk groups, ‘Log On – Play it Right’ will use learning gamification, including online and offline games and activities, easy-to-read resources and an awareness campaign to help women with disability build their skills to prevent, recognise and respond to online abuse.
Women with disability are particularly impacted by scams, online bullying, coercion, catfishing and controlling behaviours in digital relationships.
Flagstaff’s new project will ensure women with disability will have the tools and confidence to stay safe, both online and in the community.
‘Log On – Play it Right’ builds on Flagstaff’s strong track record of creating practical safety and inclusion resources specific for people with disability, including the successful ‘EMBER’ emergency preparedness program and many road safety programs.
Flagstaff CEO, Rodney Von Clark said, “Flagstaff takes safety in all its forms seriously, whether it’s preparing for emergencies, navigating roads, or now protecting vulnerable people in the digital world. Gender-based online violence often includes online abuse and harassment, and too often those who bully, coerce, or control hide behind a keyboard. This program gives women with disability the knowledge, skills, and confidence to spot danger signs, stand strong and stay safe online.”
The project will run until June 2027 and will develop:
- An interactive online game platform in accessible design
- Offline games with safety prevention strategies
- Accessible information in Easy English guides, Braille versions, podcasts, and videos
- Training resources for carers and service providers
- A national awareness campaign
The Flagstaff Group is a leading disability enterprise based in the Illawarra, Shoalhaven, and Macarthur regions. Through employment, training, and innovative programs, Flagstaff supports people with disability to build life skills, confidence, and independence and have meaningful employment.
