A new mobile phone app which enables children and other users to send emergency alerts and broadcast their GPS location to trusted contacts has been launched in Adelaide.

The app, called Thread, gives parents discreet contact with their children when they are not in a supervised environment while also teaching children about personal safety.

The app had been in the making for a number of years and was developed by the Carly Ryan Foundation with funding from the State Government and Google.

Foundation director Sonya Ryan said it was important for families to be aware of the dangers associated with digital technology and for the Government to also support the technology.

"The technology is constantly evolving so it's really important for government at both state and federal level to keep on top of what our kids are doing, of how they are communicating and provide those solutions so families have got as much assistance and support as possible," Ms Ryan said.

"While Thread has an underlying focus on safety, it is also about building trust between children and their parents and making it known that their safety and whereabouts is important."

Some of the app's features include an emergency alert function which connects users immediately to triple-0 and their nominated contacts.

It also links to Crime Stoppers, Kids Helpline, Lifeline and Think You Know, and has chat and photo functions.

Ms Ryan said she hoped the app would encourage families to talk openly about the importance of regular communication, personal safety and trust.

"This can really begin a good relationship, it's a great way to prompt that communication with your kid and talk to them about the motivation behind you wanting them to download this app," she said.

The Carly Ryan Foundation promotes internet safety as well as offering support for victims of internet crimes.

It was set up following the death of Ms Ryan's 15-year-old daughter Carly, who was murdered by a man she met online in 2007.

Ms Ryan said the loss of her daughter had given her a chilling insight into how easily young people could find themselves alone and exposed if they innocently misplaced their trust.

"Sadly, young people are not fitted with the benefit of experience when it comes to navigating the outside world, and often have more limited financial means, transport and social supports compared to adults; this can make them vulnerable in emergency situations," she said.

Thread is available for iPhone users and was expected to be available to Android users in March.