One of the women from The Flagstaff Group on an iPad. Photo: Supplied.
Social enterprise The Flagstaff Group is leading the way nationally to make the online world safer for women with disability.
Based in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, it has become the first disability organisation in the country to receive an Australian Government grant to combat digital gender-based abuse and violence through its ‘Log On – Play it Right’ program.
The eSafety Commissioner awarded $314,000 to the Flagstaff program, as part of round two of the Preventing Tech-Based Abuse of Women Grants Program, due to its innovative approach and ability to reach one of the most at-risk groups through Log On – Play it Right.
Using learning gamification, Log On – Play it Right includes 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, according to The Flagstaff Group.
Flagstaff’s new project will ensure women with disability will have the tools and confidence to stay safe, online and in the community.
Flagstaff CEO Rodney Von Clark said Log On – Play it Right built on Flagstaff’s strong track record of creating practical safety and inclusion resources specifically for people with disability.
Mr Von Clark said other examples included many road safety programs and the successful ‘EMBER’ emergency preparedness program, that came about after bushfires ravaged the South Coast in 2020.
EMBER ensures people with a disability are prepared for any future disaster and that emergency personnel are equipped to help them.
“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,” Mr Von Clark said.
“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.”
Running until June 2027, the project will develop an interactive online game platform in accessible design.
It will also involve offline games with safety prevention strategies; accessible information in easy English guides, Braille versions, podcasts, and videos; training resources for carers and service providers; and a national awareness campaign.
This initiative supports the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022–2032, which highlights the growing impact of technology in gender-based violence.
The Flagstaff Group is an integrated disability enterprise and NDIS registered provider, offering employment, training, and innovative programs to support people with disability.
