The conversation every parent must have with their child in front of school children

Act for Kids encourages parents to have a crucial conversation with their children before heading to the Schoolies celebrations. OnlyFans creators are reportedly targeting school leavers to film offensive content.

The warning comes after content creators posted videos on social media claiming that many soon-to-be high school graduates had already applied to take part in sexually explicit content, which would later be shared with audiences on OnlyFans reputation pays.

While school leavers should enjoy the celebrations, Dr. Katrina Lines, CEO of Act for Kids, said they need to be reminded of the potential long-term consequences of sharing explicit material online.

“Any videos or images of them can stay online forever, especially if they have no control over how, when and where they are published. It is also important that they understand informed consent before agreeing to filming sexual activity,” said Dr. Lines.

“We were also disappointed by the language used by a YouTuber who described school leavers as “barely legal” and specifically highlighted the self-benefit of selling teen sex content. We fear that this will exploit young people who may have never experienced sexual interactions before to make money.

“It is so important for parents and carers to have conversations about safe sex practices, respectful relationships and consent with their children at all stages of their development, but especially before the start of the Schoolies celebrations.”

“We want school leavers to have fun, feel empowered to make good decisions and say no if a situation makes them feel uncomfortable during their celebrations.”

Further advice for students and their parents can be found below.

Tips for parents:

• Instead of just “chatting,” talk to your child regularly about safe sex, consent, and respectful relationships.
• Don’t make it embarrassing – it’s important to remember that if you don’t speak to them, they may be getting their information online or from an unsafe or unreliable source.
• Remind your child that they can ask you questions and talk to you at any time, or give them the phone number for a safe point of contact.
• Find out the names and telephone numbers of your child’s accommodation provider, closest friends and parents before they go to Schoolies.

Tips for school children:

• Visit saferschoolies.qld.gov.au for information on how to stay safe.
• Stick with your friends and look after each other.
• In emergencies, call 000 and have other emergency contacts ready.
• Check in with your family and friends regularly – even if it’s just via text message.

About Us:

Act for Kids is a leading children’s organization providing evidence-based, trauma-informed professional therapy and support services to children who have suffered harm or are at risk of harm.

The purpose of Act for Kids is to protect children, heal from trauma and lead happy lives.

We have helped hundreds of thousands of children and families over the past 35 years.

Our support includes therapy, prevention, treatment, research, education and advocacy. We operate in over 30 centers across Australia and have a team of 490 staff from Adelaide to Cape York Peninsula.

Contact details:

For interview opportunities, please contact Melanie Whiting: 0427 794 666, [email protected]