Research shows that a significant number of children have negative online experiences, with one in five young Australians aged 8 to 17 years reporting being socially excluded, threatened or abused online.

As children grow older and enter their teenage years, age-appropriate supervision can continue to be a useful protective strategy.

Let older teenagers know you are still available to provide support, especially if they have a negative experience.

We know that as young people become adults they can still be at risk of harm. You can reduce the risk and impact of the harm by offering warm support and acknowledging their strengths.

You can say ‘I know you have your own life online. Your privacy and independence are important. But I want you to know that I’m still here to help if anything goes wrong, especially if you need to talk about something difficult. If something happens, we can figure out what to do together.’ For more practical information, go to

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice