In 2025, gaming is more than a hobby. It’s a social network, a creative outlet, and for many young people, a central part of daily life. Whether your child is building worlds in Minecraft, teaming up in Fortnite, or watching their favourite streamer on Twitch, their screen time is often playtime, social time and entertainment rolled into one.
As gaming becomes more immersive and online-focused, it brings real risks, from data breaches and scams to exposure to inappropriate content, aggression and addiction. The key for parents is to stay informed, stay involved and help keep things balanced.
Here’s what you need to know about popular games, the potential dangers, and how to help your child game safely and respectfully.
(E10+)
Kids explore, build and survive in block-based worlds. Creative and educational, but online servers can expose players to inappropriate content or chat.
Safety tip: Stick to private worlds or child-friendly servers. Monitor mod downloads for malware.
(13+)
A battle royale where players compete to be the last one standing. Bright visuals mask the fact it is still a shooting game.
Risks: Voice chat with strangers, addictive gameplay and pressure to make in-game purchases.
Tip: Use parental controls to limit communication and spending.
(MA15+)
Realistic military shooter with graphic violence and voice chat.
Risks: Desensitisation to violence, exposure to adult content and aggressive language.
Tip: This game is rated MA15+ for a reason, know what your teen is exposed to.
(R18+)
An open-world crime game with theft, violence, drug use and adult themes.
Risks: High exposure to explicit content and unmoderated online interactions.
Tip: Not recommended for anyone under 18.
(No age rating)
A platform of user-created games that has transformed into an online universe. Kids love the creativity, but some games contain violence, horror themes or dating content.
Risks: Grooming, scams and inappropriate chat.
Tip: Use parental controls, restrict access to trusted games only and keep chat options limited.
(13+)
A strategic team game with fast action and complex gameplay.
Risks: Toxic chat, emotional burnout and high-pressure environments.
Tip: Encourage a healthy attitude around wins and losses.
What to Watch For and What You Can Do
Multiplayer games often encourage long sessions to stay competitive or keep up with peers. Missing out can mean losing progress, rankings or even friendships.
What you can do: Set screen time boundaries using in-built tools and always encourage or enforce regular breaks.
Fast-paced or violent games can lead to emotional outbursts, especially in younger players. Repeated exposure to violent content (including in video games) has been linked to increased aggression in real life.
What you can do: Stay involved. Sit with your child while they play or explore new games together. Open communication helps them feel safe raising any concerns. And always stick to age-appropriate games, those ratings exist for a reason.
Late-night gaming can disrupt sleep, lead to skipped meals, or cause headaches and posture problems.
What you can do: Enforce device-free bedtimes and ensure healthy gaming habits, like standing breaks and time limits.
Gaming can cut into homework or study time. Games deliver instant rewards — school usually doesn’t.
What you can do: Balance is key. Help your child schedule their gaming around other responsibilities.
Even on child-friendly platforms, kids can encounter swearing, bullying or grooming attempts.
What you can do: Use parental controls to restrict chat, monitor who they’re playing with, and teach digital respect — including when to block, report or walk away.
Balance Is Key
Video games are here to stay and they’re not all bad. Many encourage problem-solving, spark creativity and help kids connect with others. But like anything, they work best as part of a balanced routine, not a substitute for school, social time or sleep.
As a parent, your involvement matters more than any game setting or restriction. Talk with your child. Listen. Join in when you can. It’s not about banning games but making sure they are played safely and in moderation.
Resources
How to Talk About Violence
Talking about violence with teens is important. These tips can help make this tough conversation easier.
How to Spot the Warning Signs
Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in identifying signs of weapon carrying among their children. Here are some tips and advice on recognising warning signs:
Online Safety Series
Visit our Online Safety Series for range of educational topics and tips to prevent criminal activity while online.
Support Services
If you think your child needs help and feel they will not talk to you, they can reach out to:
- 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 (24/7): https://www.1800respect.org.au
- Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7): https://www.lifeline.org.au
- 13YARN – 13 92 76 (24/7): https://www.13yarn.org.au
- Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800 (24/7): https://kidshelpline.com.au
- Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 (24/7): https://www.beyondblue.org.au
- Headspace – 1800 650 890: https://headspace.org.au
- RainbowDoor – 1800 729 367 (10am – 5pm): https://www.rainbowdoor.org.au
Remember: It can make a real difference having someone to talk to.
Emergency Situations
If anyone is in immediate danger or a crime is currently occurring, please call police on Triple Zero (000). If you cannot access a phone, you can also go to a police station.
