The paper presents a collective stance from researchers and industry bodies on the responsible and respectful use of children’s digital data in social media and online communications within education settings in Australia. It outlines five principles to advocate for a shared understanding of the key issues regarding the sharing of children’s data on social media.

Prior to the implementation of Australia’s Social Media Minimum Age Act 2024, this report documents young people’s views. Social media is described as integral to their wellbeing, education and relationships, despite recognised risks. Respondents express doubts about the under‑16 restriction, cite inadequate consultation and identify limited assistance for the transition beyond December 10, 2025.

This report synthesises discussions from the Digital Childhoods Summit, held in Canberra in June 2025. The summit aimed to identify key priorities for practice and policy to improve digital childhoods in Australia. It was organised around four key themes, each recognised as timely and significant issues affecting children, families, educators, industry and government.

This report highlights nine of the most urgent challenges and issues in terms of everyday use of GenAI tools, especially when children might be using these systems. All of these are in urgent need of greater research, including hearing more from children and young people about how they use, and how they wish to (or...

With international and domestic discussions on banning children and young people from social media, this report is a timely contribution that aims to inform stakeholders and organisations concerned with the wellbeing, education, social participation, and safety of children using digital technologies.