The hard-to-have conversations
Guide to share with parents and carers on having conversations with children and teenagers about tricky personal subjects, including sexting and pornography.
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Hosted on https://www.esafety.gov.au/ • Opens in a new tab
By eSafety
Published on 2025
How this resource can help
Use this resource to
Share with parents and carers as part of prevention and early intervention efforts
Show parents and carers ways to encourage open, honest communication with their children
Ensure parents and carers consider online safety as part of keeping their child safe
Build parent and carer confidence to discuss sensitive topics, including sexting and pornography
It covers
Ways to approach difficult conversations
What to talk about at different ages and developmental stages
What to do after a conversation and how to keep the conversation going
Where to go for help and support
Open this resource
Hosted on https://www.esafety.gov.au/ • Opens in a new tab
If you are a parent or carer
You’re in the right place! Talking about topics like online safety, sexting and pornography can feel challenging. This guide can help you start and continue these conversations with your child. If you’re worried about something specific, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Last reviewed by Together We Can: 20 July 2026
What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour
Problematic and harmful sexual behaviour affects children, families, and communities. Understanding it clearly is the first step toward effective prevention, recognition, and response.
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Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.