Latest News

Friday, 31 July 2026

Dear Mater Dei Community 

In light of the emerging risks associated with artificial intelligence, including the misuse of publicly shared images to create deepfakes and other altered content, Mater Dei Organisation (including Mater Dei School, Mater Dei Early Childhood Education, NextPath Assessment & Therapy and NextPath Continuous Learning) is undertaking a review on how we use visual imagery including across our communications, publications and platforms. 

The eSafety Commission has highlighted increasing concerns about the unauthorised use of photographs of students, staff and community members, particularly where images can be copied, manipulated or redistributed without consent.  

As a result, you will notice changes in the way Mater Dei and its programs share photos and videos online: 

These changes will include  

• Careful consideration of the types of images shared publicly, including greater use of group photographs and images that minimise individual identification, including photographs taken from a distance or with subjects facing away from the camera. 

• Where possible, disabling commenting and post sharing and regular archiving of content 

• Prioritising the use of secure, closed platforms where possible instead of public pages  

• Reviewing policies, consent processes and collection notices for clarity and alignment with current expectations 

• Ensuring clear reporting pathways for concerns about image misuse and regularly reviewing practices to ensure alignment with relevant privacy requirements, safeguarding standards and best practice 

These measures are being introduced to help protect the privacy, dignity and safety of the students, participants, families, staff and communities we support. They align with Mater Dei's commitment to the Child Safe Standards and the creation of environments where children and young people are safe, heard, respected and protected. These measures also reflect our ongoing commitment to providing a safe and respectful environment while continuing to celebrate the achievements, experiences and successes of our community. 

For more information about the eSafety Commission’s recommendations, please visit https://www.esafety.gov.au/newsroom/blogs/sharing-school-imagery-in-the-age-of-ai-risks-deepfakes-and-how-to-protect-students-and-staff. 

We thank our community for your understanding and support. 

Mater Dei Leadership Team