Online gaming

Online games can be great fun and help build skills, but it’s important to guide your child so they can enjoy the benefits while managing the risks.

Games can improve coordination, problem-solving and social skills through online interaction. However, risks can arise if things go wrong.

Risks of online gaming include

• Spending too much time gaming, impacting sleep, study, health and wellbeing.
• Bullying or grooming through in-game chat and messaging.
• Games with gambling-like elements that can normalise betting behaviours.
• Unexpected costs through in-game purchases.

How to create a safer gaming environment for your child

• Prepare — keep consoles in open areas and use available parental controls and safety features.
• Build good habits — use a screen name (not a real name), avoid clicking links from strangers, and keep devices updated.
• Agree on switch-off strategies — set timers or rules for end-of-play, with clear consequences for not switching off.
• Stay involved — play alongside your child sometimes; ask about who they play with and how they’re feeling.
• Be aware of what they are playing — check age ratings, themes, language and in-game purchases.
• Empower your child — help them make wise decisions, manage negative experiences, and know how to block and report.

This material has been adapted with permission from the Australian Government eSafety Commissioner. Permission to adapt content does not constitute endorsement of material by the eSafety Commissioner.