Digital communication is part of everyday life for young Australians, and for First Nations children, it plays a growing role in how culture, identity, and connection are expressed online.
However, online spaces are not always safe or inclusive. To help address these challenges, the eSafety Commissioner has released two new guides—Safer Together! and Leaving Deadly Digital Footprints!—designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids, their families, and carers.
Developed through co-design workshops with First Nations communities, the guides draw on the power of storytelling, case studies, and interactive activities. They support young people to develop safe, confident online habits while reflecting cultural knowledge and community values. Importantly, they were shaped with the support of kids, carers, and families from Gimuy (Cairns, Queensland), ensuring the content is grounded in lived experience.
According to eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, the guides respond to the unique risks Indigenous young people face online, such as racism, exclusion, and targeted harm.
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“First Nations children and teenagers are embracing the internet and technology in wonderful and creative ways; however, they are more likely to be exposed to a range of online harms, including hate speech, discrimination, and bullying,” Ms Inman Grant said.
“These guides were built by and for First Nations people. They’re about learning together, building trust, and giving children the tools to enjoy the digital world safely and confidently.”
The resources are not just for children. They are intended for anyone raising or caring for young people—parents, grandparents, uncles, aunties, and community members. Clear language and inclusive visuals help demystify digital safety concepts, making conversations easier across generations.
Midway through the guides, social media emerges as a central theme. While it allows communities to connect, celebrate culture, and share stories, it also poses risks that children must learn to navigate. The guides encourage open discussion about sharing content, protecting personal information, and responding to online bullying.
Rather than focusing solely on risks, the resources highlight the strengths of First Nations storytelling and community support. Visual elements, plain language, and culturally respectful messaging ensure accessibility. Videos, yarning cards and factsheets offer flexible ways for families to engage.
In partnership with First Nations organisations, eSafety continues to develop resources that reflect and respect cultural perspectives. By recognising community voices, these tools foster safer digital environments where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children can thrive.
Adrianne Saplagio is a Content Producer at Comms Room, where she combines her passion for storytelling with her expertise in multimedia content creation. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for engaging audiences, Adrianne has been instrumental in crafting compelling narratives that resonate across various digital platforms.
