The Australian government has announced a $3 million pilot project aimed at assessing and reducing cyber-bullying in Australian schools. The Australia-wide project is intended to educate students about cyber-bullying, monitor the prevalence and impact of cyber-bullying, and assess the effectiveness of current cyber-safety education programs.

The project is being trialled in at least 150 schools and was unveiled last week by education minister Julie Gillard. “With the emergence of new technologies, cyber-bullying after school has become a serious issue for many young people,” the minister said.

The plan is part of the government’s $125.8 million cyber-safety plan which includes the recently revamped Cybersmart cyber-eduction website.