Cyberbullying Awareness
How we can help children and young people stay safe online
In a world where our lives are increasingly connected online, cyberbullying has become one of the most harmful experiences a child or young person can face.
As adults, whether we’re parents, carers, or simply trusted people in a young person’s life, we play a crucial role in recognising the signs and knowing how to help.
What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying happens when someone uses the internet or digital technology to be mean, threatening, or hurtful towards a child or young person. It can occur on social media, in online games, through text messages, chats, or even emails.
Examples include:
- Sending hurtful or threatening messages
- Sharing embarrassing photos or videos without consent
- Spreading rumours or nasty gossip online
- Excluding someone from online groups or conversations
- Creating fake profiles to impersonate or mock someone
- Tricking a person into revealing private information
Sadly, cyberbullying is more common than we thought. According to the eSafety Commissioner (2021), 44% of Australian young people have had a negative online experience in the past six months, and 15% received threats or abuse online.
Recognising the Signs
As adults, we may not always see what’s happening online, but we can look for changes in a young person’s behaviour.
Be alert if you notice:
- They seem anxious, withdrawn, or upset after being online
- They suddenly avoid digital devices or social platforms they used to enjoy
- They mention being left out of group chats or seeing hurtful comments
- They receive unexpected messages, images, or calls that cause distress
If something feels off, it’s important to start the conversation early.
How to Support a Child or Young Person
The first step is always to listen. Stay calm, thank them for opening up, and reassure them that they are not to blame.
You can help by:
- Starting the conversation – Ask gentle, open questions about their online experiences.
- Encouraging them to speak up – Remind them that no one deserves to be treated badly online.
- Reporting or blocking harmful content – Most platforms allow users to report bullying behaviour quickly.
- Contacting eSafety – If the content is serious or ongoing, eSafety can help investigate and remove harmful material.
- Reaching out for professional help – Services like Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) are available anytime, for any reason.
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 000. For non-urgent police assistance, contact 131 444.
What eSafety Can Do
The eSafety Commissioner is Australia’s national authority for online safety. They help prevent and address cyberbullying by:
- Providing education, information, and resources to families and schools
- Investigating and helping to remove serious cases of online abuse
- Supporting victims through reporting and advice
For eSafety to investigate, the incident must be seriously harmful, such as content that is:
- Threatening – e.g. someone saying they will cause harm
- Intimidating – e.g. messages that make someone feel scared or unsafe
- Harassing – repeated unwanted messages or posts
- Humiliating – content intended to cause shame or embarrassment
If these behaviours occur and the social media or gaming platform doesn’t act, eSafety can step in to request removal of the content.
Visit the eSafety website to learn more or to report cyberbullying.
Why Awareness Matters
Cyberbullying doesn’t just affect young people, it affects the families and friends around them too. By building awareness of all, we create a culture that encourages conversations about online safety at home and in our communities.
You can help by:
- Sharing this information with colleagues and families
- Encouraging parents and carers to check in with their children about online experiences
- Promoting a respectful digital culture, both at work and beyond