digital detox
Helping Young People Cope With The Pressures Of Digital Dependency
OUR nEXT available camps:
6-13 April 2025 (kokoda park, thornton)
july school holidays 2025 (SOUTH EAST QLD)
sEPTEMBER school holidays 2025 (SOUTH EAST QLD)
The global consumption of technology has surged in recent years, further intensified by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This rapid increase has highlighted the highly addictive nature of technology use, particularly among young people. To address this growing concern, the Digital Detox Program (DDP) offers early intervention for 12–14-year-olds already exhibiting signs of digital dependence.
Conducted every school holiday, the program includes an 8-day, fully funded camp which provides participants with the opportunity to disconnect from technology and engage in various adventure-based and educational activities.
DDP is delivered by the experienced team at Kokoda Youth Foundation, alongside a professional counsellor and outdoor education instructors.
Through engaging adventure-based activities and interactive workshops, participants have the chance to completely unplug from technology – yes, no devices allowed!
During the program, attendees are encouraged to reflect on their overall wellbeing while learning to develop healthy habits and boundaries around personal device usage.
Time Away from Tech
The goal of this youth program is to help participants build new connections, engage in physical activities, embark on wilderness adventures, and develop mindfulness techniques. All of this takes place in a serene and welcoming outdoor setting. During their time on camp, kids will participate in exciting outdoor education activities such as a high ropes course, giant swing, archery, and orienteering.
These outdoor experiences are designed to challenge participants and push them beyond their comfort zones. The sense of pride and accomplishment they feel after overcoming these challenges is something we hope will inspire them in all areas of their lives. It’s a powerful reminder that with determination, anything is possible!
The program also includes a series of educational workshops aimed at fostering awareness about how social media and gaming platforms are designed to generate profit through reliance and unhealthy attachments. These sessions encourage kids to think critically about their digital habits and understand the impact of such platforms on their wellbeing.
Importantly, the program highlights that technology, when used correctly, can support mental health. By teaching kids to recognise behaviors triggered by digital use, we equip them with tools to mitigate its negative effects. Rather than eliminating digital devices, the program focuses on helping young people develop the skills to strike a healthy balance and reduce the emotional and social impacts of digital dependency.
Throughout their time on camp, participants are inspired by the values of Kokoda —Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice — brought to life through the remarkable story of the Kokoda Campaign in 1942.
The Detox is only the Beginning
To ensure the best possible outcomes from this youth program, a parent or guardian for each participant will be required to join the final two days of the camp at the outdoor location.
This joint participation allows families to take a unified approach to understanding digital dependence and collaboratively develop strategies for fostering healthier habits at home. It also provides an opportunity for parents to connect more deeply with their teens and reflect on their own digital habits.
If you (or your teen) are aged 12–14 and would benefit from a digital detox this school holiday, apply now to gain the skills and habits needed to thrive in a digital world.
Applications for the Digital Detox Program are now open
Become a Digital Detox Volunteer Leader
Are you passionate about helping young people disconnect from digital distractions, rediscover meaningful connections, and build healthier habits? Join us as a Digital Detox Program (DDP) leader and make a lasting impact on their lives today!
As a DDP leader, you’ll empower youth to reclaim their time, nurture creativity, strengthen personal relationships, and embrace the joys of a balanced life free from constant screen dependence. Through engaging workshops, team-building activities, and real-world interactions, you’ll play a crucial role in fostering resilience, self-awareness, and emotional well-being in the next generation. Apply now and be the catalyst for positive change!
What to expect
Meet new friends with like minded
interests
Outdoor adventures with activities like flying
fox, giant swing and high ropes
Workshops that provide education and skills to
combat peer pressure relating to social media
2 nights of camping in tents with campfire
cooking
Nightly team activities
Parent/guardian participation for final 2
days
Develop confidence and learn techniques to
overcome digital reliance
Accommodation and nutritious meals
provided