Telethon Kids Institute
The Beacon Cyber Safety App
Before founding Upbeat Digital, Bec Nguyen played a key role as Product Owner and Project Manager on the development of Beacon, a world-first cyber safety app created by Telethon Kids Institute in partnership with Bankwest.
Beacon was designed to provide parents and carers with trusted, evidence-based information to help children navigate the online world safely.
Role & Responsibilities
In this role, Bec:
Translated research into clear product requirements and a user-focused design
Coordinated app development with Reach HPI (Health Promotion Innovations), ensuring the technology aligned with research insights
Led stakeholder management across government, industry, and community partners
Oversaw user testing with families to optimise usability and accessibility
Managed delivery timelines, feature development, and launch activities
Collaborations
The strength of Beacon was built on powerful collaborations, including:
eSafety Commissioner (Federal Government) – contributing content, supporting dissemination, and endorsing Beacon as the only app of its kind recognised nationally
Common Sense Media (USA) – providing content and reviews of games and apps
Cyber educators and businesses across Australia – including partnerships with experts such as Paul Litherland (WA Australian of the Year)
Department of Education – helping distribute the app and its resources to schools and families nationwide
Dissemination & Engagement
To ensure Beacon reached families and communities across Australia, a comprehensive dissemination strategy was delivered, including:
Featuring at Telethon Weekend, one of WA’s largest charity events
High-visibility advertising on Optus Stadium screens during major events
Showcasing at the AWESOME Arts Festival, connecting with children and families
A Community Outreach program delivering workshops in schools and childcare centres
Parent workshops, including collaborations with The Fathering Project
Industry engagement at the DDD Perth Event, connecting with the tech and developer community
Outcomes
Beacon launched as a free, evidence-based tool giving parents and carers practical, real-time advice on cyber safety. It continues to be recognised as a leading example of research-driven digital innovation, bringing together international expertise, federal endorsement, and grassroots educators to support families across Australia.