Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said the 2016 Digital Literacy School Grants program supports projects that demonstrate new methods for enhancing digital literacy in schools.

“Schools need to think creatively about how they teach digital literacy to ensure that students don’t fall behind or find it difficult to engage,” Minister Birmingham said.

“We need all children to be digitally literate to ensure they are ready for a future full of technology.”

Minister Birmingham said around $4 million has been allocated to the program as part of the Turnbull Government’s $50.6 million commitment to assist Australian teachers and students to embrace the digital age.  This program is a key part of the $1.1 billion National Innovation and Science Agenda.

“The grants are also designed to support teachers to implement the digital technologies parts of the national curriculum by providing guidance and support on digital literacy learning and skills in both primary and secondary schools,” Minister Birmingham said. 

“The Turnbull Government is committed to improving the teaching and learning of digital literacy in our schools.

“Sparking an interest in these subjects at an early age is the best way to ensure we increase the number of students taking up science, technology, engineering and mathematics  subjects to set them up for success after they leave school.”

Grants will be awarded for project proposals that demonstrate innovative methods for driving enhanced digital literacy in schools.  Grant proposals must: Focus on school−based activities or programs that support school leaders and teachers to understand and implement the Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies on a whole of school basis, and/or Engage students with the Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies.

Applications close at 5.00pm (AEDT) on Friday, 28 October 2016.

Visit http://education.gov.au/digital-literacy-school-grants-dlsg for more details.