The good stuff
- It’s fun and creative.
- You can learn skills like video editing, writing, and design.
- You can build confidence and find your voice.
About creating online
Key takeaways
- Creating content online can be fun, creative, and even a career path.
- It’s important to stay safe and protect your privacy and digital reputation.
- Learn the basics of copyright and fair use before sharing.
- Talk as a family about healthy content creation habits.
Many young people enjoy making videos, sharing photos, or starting a blog or gaming channel.
This is called content creation. It can be a great way to express yourself, learn skills, and connect with others.
But just like in real life, there are some risks. This article shares simple tips for creating and sharing content safely and responsibly.
What is content creation?
Content creation is when you make things to share online.
This can include:
- Videos or livestreams
- Blogs or stories
- Podcasts
- Photos, art or memes
- Gaming content
Many young people are becoming “content creators.” Some even earn money from it.
The benefits and risks of being a creator
What to watch out for
- Getting too focused on likes and followers.
- Posting something you later regret.
- Sharing personal information by accident.
- Getting hurtful comments or messages.
Staying safe when you share
When making content, it’s important to think before you post.
Tips to protect your privacy and wellbeing:
- Keep your location private: Don’t show school uniforms, house numbers or street signs.
Resource: eSafety: How to manage location sharing
- Use a nickname or screen name instead of your real name.
- Check who can see your content. Use private settings where possible.
- Keep your location private: Don’t show school uniforms, house numbers or street signs.
Resource: eSafety: Protect your digital reputation
- Keep your location private: Don’t show school uniforms, house numbers or street signs.
Resource: eSafety: Risks of livestreaming
Understanding copyright
If you’re using music, videos, or images in your content that someone else made, you need to understand copyright.
What is copyright?
Copyright is a law that protects original work like music, photos, writing, and videos. If someone else created it, you usually need their permission to use it.
Tips for staying legal:
- Use content you made yourself.
- Use royalty-free music or content that says it's okay to reuse.
- Check for Creative Commons or open licenses.
- Know about fair dealing – it allows limited use of content for things like education or review.
Copyright resources
Fair dealing – What can I use?
This Australian Copyright Council fact sheet outlines the fair dealing exceptions in the Copyright Act and how they apply.
Protecting your copyright
In this Australian Copyright Council fact sheet, learn how you can protect the copyright material you create.
Copyright basics factsheet
Explore this comprehensive Arts Law fact sheet.
Copyright basics factsheet
This Arts Law fact sheet covers clearing copyright in material used by AI, copyright ownership in material produced by AI, and the legal uncertainties in this area.
Tips for families
Content creation is something you can explore with your child. You can:
Tips
- Talk about what kind of content they like to make.
- Watch and enjoy their videos together.
- Help them think about what’s safe to post.
- Encourage breaks from screens and focus on fun, not fame.
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