Leading digital platforms including Facebook, Google, Twitter, Oath and Microsoft Australia have come together with more than 80 young leaders from ASEAN countries and across Australia to combat extremism and hate speech online.

The DIGI Engage 2018 forum, hosted in Sydney today, is part of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit and is a joint initiative of the Australian Government and DIGI, a not-for-profit industry association representing digital industry in Australia.

The Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton said the forum is aimed at empowering young people with the skills, tools and inspiration to shape their online environments and counter extremism.

“We know that the Internet, which is vital to so many aspects of our lives, can play a significant role in giving a platform to violent extremists and the people who want to divide us,” Mr Dutton said.

“The Australian Government works closely with digital industry and our agencies to take down the vile material of violent extremists, who exploit the online environment to spread their propaganda and recruit others.”

The Minister for Law Enforcement and Cyber Security Angus Taylor said DIGI Engage is an innovative approach to countering hatred, bullying and extremism online.

“This is a global issue that requires the collaboration of our international partners, industry and the community to promote tolerance and safety online,” Mr Taylor said.

“Today’s forum is about giving young people, who shape their identities online, with the skills and confidence to challenge dangerous online narratives and use technology as a force for good.”

This forum is part of ASEAN-Australia Week, which highlights the depth and diversity of links between Australia and Southeast Asia, and showcases institutions’ engagement across Australia and ASEAN countries. The Special Summit will be held in Sydney on 17-18 March.