Majority of Aussie Parents Not Using Online Safety Controls Despite Rising Awareness

New research has uncovered a significant digital disconnect — that while most Aussie parents (a solid 82%) know about online safety tools like parental controls, almost 60% still aren’t using them on apps and platforms, especially when it comes to teens.

Commissioned by Snapchat, the study surveyed over 1000 parents of under-18s and found that those with younger kids (aged 5–12) are more likely to use safety tools than parents of teens. And here’s the kicker: of the parents who do use parental controls, a whopping 92% say they actually help keep their families safer online.

Majority of Aussie Parents Not Using Online Safety Controls, Despite Rising Awareness

Online safety expert Susan McLean says that as tech use ramps up in the teen years, it’s vital that parents stay involved. “Too many aren’t using the tools available, especially when kids get their first phone and start exploring the digital world more independently,” she said.

How To Keep Your Children Safer Online

Snapchat’s own tools include the Family Centre — an in-app hub where parents can view their teen’s friends list, see who they’re chatting with, set content controls, and share locations, all while keeping conversations private.

Encouragingly, the study found 76% of parents who hadn’t heard of parental controls before would consider using them in future. Ryan Ferguson, Snap’s Managing Director in ANZ, hopes more families take that step. “As a dad to a teen myself, I know how tricky this space can be. These tools are here to make it easier.”

Snapchat’s Family Safety Hub also offers easy-to-follow guides and tips for parents who want to understand the app and support their teens’ digital well-being.

Experts agree that while no single tool can do it all, parental controls — combined with open conversations and clear tech rules — are a strong step toward safer online experiences for Aussie families.

For more information about keeping your family safe online, visit the Snapchat Family Safety Hub.

Hero image: Akron Childrens.

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