The eSafety Commissioner (eSafety) is the Australian Government’s independent online safety regulator.
Their purpose is to promote positive online experiences by preventing online risks and building safer digital spaces.
We wanted to understand more about their role, their services and how they’re including young people in their policies and programs – which is why we sat down for a Q&A to find out more.
OFY: Who is the eSafety Commissioner?
eSafety: Julie Inman Grant PSM was first appointed to the role in 2017. Julie previously held senior roles at big tech companies, including Microsoft and Twitter.
OFY: What is the role of eSafety and the eSafety Commissioner?
eSafety: As the first agency of its kind in the world, we help safeguard Australians at risk of online harms and promote safer, more positive online experiences. We want to help create a world where everyone can enjoy the benefits of digital technology and online spaces, free from harm.
OFY: How can I recognise misinformation or fake content online?
eSafety: Thinking critically is always important, but particularly when something just doesn’t feel right. It means slowing down so you notice red flags like dramatic headlines (including writing in ALL-CAPS) or if something sounds too good to be true (it usually is). Trust your gut. By pausing to process what you’re seeing or hearing and asking the right questions, you can break down almost anything online and work out likely risks.
OFY: What are the risks of using artificial intelligence and chatbots?
eSafety: Be mindful of sharing personal or sensitive information with an AI tool. While AI can be a useful source of information, it’s better to talk to your family, friends or another person you trust if you’re needing support with your wellbeing.
OFY: What is eSafety doing to make social media and gaming platforms safer?
eSafety: We know young people expect the technology industry to help users navigate online environments freely and safely. eSafety shines a light on how companies are tackling a range of harms through our transparency reports. We also enforce Online Safety Codes and Standards designed to protect Australians from unlawful and age-restricted online content. We want to see industry building safety into their products and services from the start, and we’re helping them achieve this through our Safety by Design principles.
OFY: How can young people help inform eSafety’s policies and resources?
eSafety: The eSafety Youth Council is a group of young people aged 13 to 24 from all over Australia. The Council provides young people with the opportunity to speak up, share their experiences, and help shape our policies, programs and resources. eSafety seeks new members for the Youth Council every 2-years. If you care about online safety, helping other young people and like working with others, the next round of applications is expected to open in early 2028.
OFY: Where can I get support if an online experience affects my wellbeing?
eSafety: If you or someone you know is dealing with a difficult online experience, there's help available. You're not alone. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, hurt or just unsure, there's a real strength in reaching out for support. Depending on what’s happened, there are different ways to get support. eSafety can investigate serious online abuse and help you protect yourself. Talking with someone you trust or contacting a free, confidential counselling or support service can help you deal with stressful online experiences.
A huge thank you for the team at eSafety for your time to answer our questions!
If you want to find out more visit eSafety.gov.au.