Protecting young people online

Young people spend more time online than ever - learning, gaming, socialising and exploring their interests. These digital spaces offer incredible opportunities, but they can also raise questions around privacy, wellbeing and confidence.

Building strong digital habits help kids and teens feel more confident, respectful and safe online. These habits also support a safer online community for everyone.

Why online safety matters

For many young people, the online world is part of everyday life. They use digital platforms daily for learning, socialising, entertainment and creativity. While these spaces offer opportunities, they also carry risks to privacy, wellbeing, and confidence.

Start the conversation

Simple, regular chats build awareness and trust. Ask:

• What apps or games are your friends using?
• What makes an online post “good” or “not okay”?
• How do you decide who to trust online?

Learn from young people

Kids and teens often have strong instincts about authenticity, fairness and digital etiquette. Ask them:

• What do you wish adults understood about social media?
• How do you handle negativity online?
• What helps you balance screen time?

Practical Tips

Small habits can make a big difference in creating a safter online environment:

• Think before you post – online content is hard to take back
• Keep personal info private – avoid sharing names, schools, locations
• Use strong passwords – fun but secure and keep them private
• Ask before you click – check anything that seems dodgy
• Be kind online – your words affect others and you
• Take breaks – balance screen time with offline activities

Helpful Resources

For more support and information, these trusted organisations offer tools and guidance for families: 

• eSafety Commissioner | Social media age restrictions
• AFP | Are you ClickFit?
• Black Dog Institute | Teens and screens
• ThinkUKnow Australia
• eSafety Commissioner | Parents portal