Offensive and prohibited Internet content

The Internet has revolutionised the way people communicate, through email, chat rooms, electronic messaging and instant information access.

Unfortunately, the Internet has also provided child sex offenders with an expansive medium to trade in child pornography and a greater opportunity to gain relatively anonymous access to children. Through the online world, sex offenders are able to identify potential victims, engage in grooming activities, and in some cases meet and commit offences against vulnerable, unsuspecting children.

By supervising the use of the Internet, parents and guardians can decrease the risk of children falling victim to unwanted persons or material posted on the web. Even if there is no computer at home, the Internet can still be accessed at schools, libraries, Internet cafes and friends’ houses and should be supervised at all times.

Children should be taught the benefits of the Internet, but also be made aware of the inappropriate and offensive material that exists on the web. By paying close attention to children's Internet activities, parents and guardians can help them make the Internet a positive and rewarding experience.

If you know about a child who is in immediate danger or risk, call 000 or contact your local police.

Report offensive material online

You can anonymously report material you have seen on the Internet which you consider to be offensive or illegal through the Office of the eSafety Commissioner. The office will investigate all valid complaints and take action in relation to prohibited and potentially prohibited content. For more information, or to make a complaint, visit the eSafety Commissioner’s website.