A shocking new study released today by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC), unpacks the risks and experiences of underage adult-based platform use.
In the study, 46 participants aged 18-21 were interviewed about their previous risk-taking experiences as children on adult-based platforms. This included dating apps, remunerative matchmaking services, subscription platforms and even fetish communities. It builds on prior AIC research showing that almost 10% of a national sample of dating app users had used these apps while underage.
The study found that children are exposed to risks both online and offline as a result of using these platforms. Offline risks included sexual encounters with adults while under the age of consent, drug and alcohol use and engaging in criminal behaviour.
AIC Deputy Director, Dr Rick Brown says the study is important in understanding adult platforms and dating apps, as well as the risks to young people.
"The study has revealed that adult-based platforms are a well-established and growing avenue for youth to explore risk-taking behaviours."
The research recommended that further studies should be conducted with children to determine the volume of underage users and inform policy makers when targeting youth with preventative measures and education. The report is available on the AIC website .
"Behaviours such as illegal conversations involving sexting, drug use and crime typically move outside these platforms, which needs to be considered in any response or preventive action," Dr Brown said.
From 10 December 2025, Australians under 16 will not be allowed to create or hold accounts on certain social media platforms, and the age-restricted platforms will need to find and deactivate existing accounts of under 16s and prevent them from creating new accounts.
