A growing number of Australians want tougher measures to protect children from online sexual exploitation and abuse, a new national poll has found.
With more children spending time on the internet, the urgency for effective safeguards has never been greater.
Commissioned by the Childlight East Asia and Pacific Hub at UNSW Sydney and conducted by research firm Norstat, the representative survey of 1005 adults reveals widespread public concern. Nearly three-quarters (73%) believe children are not safe on social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. An overwhelming 86% say the federal government should do more to tackle online child sexual abuse.
“There is no ambiguity in what Australians are telling us,” said Professor Michael Salter, director of the Childlight Hub.
“Parents and citizens are deeply concerned about the risks children face online, and they want bold, practical action from their leaders.”
The survey paints a clear picture. Nine in 10 respondents support age verification to restrict access to pornography sites, and a similar number back ban vs on apps that create fake nude images.
A striking 92% want stricter regulation of tech companies like Google, Meta and Apple to ensure harmful content is swiftly removed, so long as user privacy is maintained.
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More than two-thirds would also support laws to criminally prosecute tech executives whose platforms fail to prevent child abuse material. Notably, 76% of Australians favour a ban on social media access for children under 16, and 88% support mandatory identity verification for all users to protect minors from online predators.
Trust in the tech sector safety remains low. Only 21% believe major social media companies are genuinely committed to child safety. Most respondents believe stronger regulation is essential, not optional.
“These findings show clear support for the efforts of Australian governments and the eSafety Commissioner to keep children safe,” said Prof Salter.
“The amount of child abuse material online has increased every year for the last twenty years. It’s clear that more action has to be taken.”
The call for accountability is growing louder.
“Stronger accountability measures for technology companies who put children at risk of sexual exploitation, including criminal accountability, would send a clear message to technology companies that their decisions are having a catastrophic impact on the safety of children and the lives of survivors of child sexual abuse. The executives who make those decisions should be accountable for them,” said Prof Salter.
“Tech companies have immense power – and with that comes responsibility,” added Professor Debi Fry, Childlight’s Global Director of Data.
“We want industry and decision-makers to urgently work together on preventive steps to protect children from this global health emergency because children can’t wait,” she said.
As the federal election nears, public pressure is mounting. For many Australians, protecting children online is no longer negotiable.
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.
