Global first study into kids in a digital age

Today I launched the Australian Research Council’s Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child at Queensland University of Technology.

The Centre’s role is to investigate the risks and opportunities for children growing up in the digital age.

It is responsible for a global first study into how Australian children engage with digital technologies.

The eight-year study will document and track patterns of digital engagement of more than 3,000 Australian families and their children.

The Australian Children of the Digital Age study will follow children from the time they are born until they turn seven to identify problems and unmet possibilities of the way children engage with digital technology.

Big ideas and world leading basic research change the world. This is another example of Australian research at its finest.

The Centre will integrate child health, education, and digital and social connectedness to support young children growing up in a rapidly changing digital age.

It will increase Australia’s research capacity and competitiveness and puts us at the forefront of research into young children and digital technology.

The Centre’s research is a great example of the Albanese Government investing in Australia’s knowledge-based economy.

The ARC is providing $34.9 million in research funding through the ARC Centres of Excellence scheme.

The Centre is also receiving an additional $32.2 million in cash and in-kind contributions from national and international partners.