Online child sex exploitation
The Australian Federal Police Online Child Sex Exploitation Team (OCSET) performs an investigative and coordination role within Australia for multijurisdictional and international online child sex exploitation matters. These cases include those from Australian State and Territory Police, government and non-government organisations (including Internet Service Providers and Internet Content Hosts), the Australian High Tech Crime Centre, the Virtual Global Taskforce, international law enforcement agencies, Interpol and members of the public.
The AFP investigates online child exploitation which occurs using the telecommunications service, such as internet or mobile phones. The type of offences include accessing, sending or uploading child pornography or child abuse material. Grooming and procuring of children over the internet is also investigated by the AFP. Investigations may also focus on Internet sites carrying this material and operated from an ISP in Australia. Any sites not within Australia are referred to overseas law enforcement agencies.
If you know about a child who is in immediate danger or risk, call 000 or contact your local police.
How to obtain information on Internet safety
The Australian Federal Police encourages people to protect themselves and their children online. NetAlert is Australia's Internet safety and advisory body established in 1999 by the Australian Government to educate Australians in managing their access to and use of the Internet. NetAlert provides a free advisory service available to all Australians.
For more information or help with an Internet safety issue, visit the NetAlert website for access to Internet safety advice, resources and NetAlert help services or make a free call to 1800 880 176.
How to report offensive material online
You can report material you have seen on the Internet which you consider to be prohibited to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). ACMA will investigate all valid complaints and takes action in relation to prohibited and potentially prohibited content. For more information, or to make a complaint, visit the ACMA website.
How to report suspicious behaviour online
Content that you have seen online, which you consider to be potentially illegal, can be reported to the ACMA website.
You can report any inappropriate or illegal activity with or towards you or any suspicious activity towards a child online using our online child sex exploitation form.
This might be a conversation with someone online who you think may be an adult, and is treating you in a way which makes you feel uncomfortable, or you think may be trying to meet a child for sex.
Do not use this reporting form to report emergencies or concerns which need an immediate response, such as a child who is immediate danger or risk. In those cases call 000 or your local police station.
Your report will go directly to the Australian Federal Police Online Child Sex Exploitation Team. A police officer will then be in touch with you.
Reporting by Internet Service Providers / Internet Content Hosts
The AFP works in partnership with Internet Service Providers (ISP) and Internet Content Hosts (ICH) in the battle against child pornography.
If you are an ISP or ICH and have become aware of child pornography or child abuse material on your server(s), then you are required to report this to the AFP.
You may report matters by using our ISP/ICH online form.
The Attorney General's website provides information on the Legislative responsibilities of ISPs and ICHs.
Key links
Contact us
| Online Child Sex Exploitation | Online Child Sex Exploitation Team PO Box 401 Canberra City ACT 2602 | Report: Online child sex exploitation form |