Become a partner in our mission of building a world where every child is protected and can thrive.
MAKE A DONATION
Colm Gannon, our CEO, has been fielding many questions about his thoughts on age assurance lately, and for good reason. As calls for stricter age verification grow louder, Australia finds itself at the centre of a global conversation about protecting children online.
In his latest op-ed, Colm explains why age verification, while well-intentioned, may not be the silver bullet many hope it will be.
"We can't view children as passive users. They are digital citizens with valuable insights into their own online experiences," he writes.
Colm's key insights:
With everyone watching Australia's next moves, we have an opportunity to establish best practice by developing solutions that are both effective and respectful of children's rights.
"Robust doesn't have to mean invasive," Colm notes. "Let's include them in the conversation."
The SaferAI for Children Coalition, a national alliance of child protection organisations, academic experts, and law enforcement agencies led by ICMEC Australia, is calling on the Australian Government to act urgently on the growing risks of AI-facilitated child sexual exploitation. The SaferAI Coalition urges that child protection remain a central policy priority in Australia’s AI strategy and calls for expert consultation and immediate action to ensure AI is a tool for safety, not exploitation.
With more than 1 in 4 Australians (Australian Child Maltreatment Study) having experienced sexual abuse in childhood, the prevalence of this crime is undeniable and at epidemic proportions. AI is making it easier for offenders to exploit children and harder for law enforcement to intervene.
“AI is being weaponised to harm children, and Australia must act swiftly to prevent these technologies from outpacing our systems of protection,” said Colm Gannon, CEO of ICMEC Australia. “We’re proud to lead this coalition and work across sectors to protect children in a rapidly evolving digital environment.”
As AI-facilitated child exploitation escalates, from the creation of AI-generated abuse material to automated grooming, Australia has a critical opportunity to lead the global response to these complex crimes. By building on our strong foundations in child protection and online safety, we can shape a new international standard for how technology is harnessed to keep children safe — one grounded in innovation, responsibility, and ethical design.
The National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported a 1,325% increase in reports involving GenAI, from 4,700 in 2023 to 67,000 in 2024. The scale of this issue is rapidly growing and, without intervention, will become even harder to control.
The letter calls for urgent action: making child protection in the AI era a national priority; working with the SaferAI for Children Coalition on tech-informed solutions; investing in AI tools for prevention and , detection; boosting education and legal reform; and leading global efforts to set child safety standards in AI.
This call to action follows the SaferAI Coalition’s widely welcomed 2024 discussion paper, which laid the groundwork for these recommendations.
Australia must act decisively to prevent AI from becoming another tool for harm. “If we fail to act now, this problem will only escalate. But if we lead, Australia can set a global benchmark for ethical AI and child protection.” Colm Gannon, CEO, ICMEC Australia.
-ends-
For more information, please contact:
Elisabeth Drysdale edrysdale@icmec.org.au Ph: 0414 390 740
At ICMEC Australia we are working towards a world where online technology cannot be used to harm children.
Detecting financial crime is a core responsibility of the financial services and payments industry and protecting children from exploitation must be at the forefront of these efforts.
Child protection is not just a social responsibility — it’s an environmental, social and governance (ESG) priority. As technology evolves, so too do the tactics of those who seek to harm the most vulnerable.
The financial services and payments industry must unite to prevent, detect, and disrupt child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA). And the broader corporate industry has a responsibility to mitigate their systems being used to facilitate this crime.
Collaboration is key. By sharing learnings, strengthening systems, and prioritising child protection in business practices, we can drive real change — and protect future generations.
ICMEC Australia is committed to supporting the corporate industry whose systems and services are impacted by child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Watch the video below to learn more.
If your organisation is ready to be part of the solution, we’d love to work with you.
Contact our ICMEC team today at: info@icmec.org.au
With special thanks to: Luke from Modified Photography, Rosie Campo, Colm Gannon, Lynda McMillan, Bridget Scougall, and Peter Cowan.
February 11 is Safer Internet Day.
In Australia, the eSafety Commissioner leads this important day, encouraging all of us to help make the internet a safer and more positive place.
At ICMEC Australia, we prioritise creating a safer digital environment by addressing the harmful impacts of online child sexual exploitation (CSE). Our dedicated focus is on fostering an online space that promotes positive outcomes, supports the development of a civil society, and places child protection at its core.
We all have a role to play in fostering a safer, more inclusive internet.
Here are five ways you can contribute:
1. Have conversations about online safety
2. Learn about online risks
3. Report harmful content
4. Practice respect and kindness online
5. Share online safety resources
You can view more resources here and learn more about how ICMEC Australia works towards a world where online technology can’t be used to harm children here.
Let's prioritise online safety every day and work together to build a safer digital future.
Hear from our CEO, Colm Gannon
In 2024, ICMEC Australia held two key industry events that underscored what we stand for: fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and inspiring action. Together, we are making meaningful strides toward creating a world where no child can be exploited. You can learn more about the importance of these events through the highlights below.
At our Symposium in October 2024, leaders from financial services, telecommunications, law enforcement, and government came together to tackle the ever-evolving challenges of child sexual exploitation (CSE). The event fostered open dialogue and encouraged bold, innovative solutions, with discussions focusing on strengthening cross-sector collaboration, leveraging technology and data to combat exploitation, and ensuring leadership and accountability to sustain impactful public-private initiatives.
The SaferAI for Children Summit at KPMG in October 2024, explored AI’s dual role as both a risk and a tool in child protection. Voices from government, academia, law enforcement, and the tech sector highlighted the dangers of AI misuse and its potential to transform how we prevent and address harm. The insights shared will guide our efforts to ensure technology is a force for good.
To stay updated on our upcoming events, visit our event page for the latest information.
Protecting children in the digital age has never been more crucial. The rapid advancements in Generative AI bring the promise of significant societal benefits, yet also present new risks. Developed in collaboration by the SaferAI for Children Coalition - a group of child protection organisations, academic experts, law enforcement agencies, and other public sector partners - this paper offers a comprehensive exploration of both the opportunities and challenges AI presents for child safety, and what this looks like in an Australian context.
We examine the ways AI-enabled tools can be misused for child sexual exploitation, but also highlight how AI can be a powerful force for good - detecting harmful content, aiding in investigations, and protecting vulnerable children. This discussion paper is a call to action and a guide, advocating for responsible use of AI to protect children and ensure that technology enhances rather than threatens their safety.
Download the SaferAI for Children coalition's, inaugural discussion paper to learn more about how we can collaborate to leverage AI's potential for a safer digital environment for all children.
To learn more about the work ICMEC Australia do, visit our research page.
Monday 25 November
After a thorough selection process, ICMEC Australia is proud to announce the appointment of Colm Gannon as our new CEO.
Colm steps away from his role as Non-Executive Chair of the ICMEC Australia Board to take on the pivotal role of CEO, bringing invaluable insights and continuity from his Board tenure. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter in ICMEC Australia's mission to protect vulnerable children from harm. Colm will officially commence his role on Monday, 2nd December 2024.
ICMEC Australia is committed to building a world where online technology cannot be used to exploit children. Our organisation plays a vital role in empowering and supporting the professionals who detect, report, prosecute, and prevent online child sexual exploitation (CSE).
We conducted an extensive recruitment process to select the right leader for ICMEC Australia. While there were several strong applicants, Colm Gannon’s extensive background in law enforcement combined with his expertise in the technology sector—particularly in child protection policy, privacy, and the ethical implementation of AI with Rigr AI—uniquely positions him as an outstanding leader to drive ICMEC Australia’s mission forward.
Colm’s visionary ideas, unwavering passion for the cause, and strong relationships within the child protection sector further solidify his position as the optimal leader to guide ICMEC Australia into the future.
In line with this leadership transition, we will expand the ICMEC Australia Board and appoint a new Chair. Additionally, we will be adding new Directors who will strengthen our governance framework and support our efforts as Colm transitions into his operational role. Our dedicated ICMEC Australia team will work alongside Colm to ensure a seamless transition.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to former CEO Anna Bowden, whose dedication and leadership have significantly shaped ICMEC Australia’s mission and achievements. Her legacy has strengthened our foundation and paved the way for continued progress.
As Colm begins his new role, we look forward to the fresh perspectives and energy he will bring to ICMEC Australia's mission. We warmly welcome Colm as we work together to create a safer world for children.
For inquiries or further information about partnering with ICMEC Australia or questions about ICMEC's Australia CEO announcement, please contact Acting CEO Rosie Campo at rcampo@icmec.org.au.
ICMEC Australia Board
We’re proud to launch our first-ever Impact Report, showcasing the incredible progress we've made at ICMEC Australia in the fight against child sexual exploitation (CSE).
In just over two years, ICMEC Australia has made a significant impact in strengthening the capability of industry professionals to detect, report, prosecute, and prevent CSE. Highlights include developing a groundbreaking data product, delivering five innovative projects with financial services and government partners, and providing dozens of educational webinars. We've also hosted five major industry events, commissioned cutting-edge research, and incubated eight new technology and data-driven initiatives.
With the support of our dedicated partners, we're setting new standards in child protection and making bold advances to safeguard children.
This year, we also achieved Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status, enabling us to pursue new funding to continue our vital work.
We invite you to explore our Impact Report and join us in creating a safer future for every child.
Please read here: https://icmec.org.au/tracking-our-impact/
As part of Child Protection Week 2024, Australian law enforcement agencies have united for a weeklong intensive training program, focusing on the latest tools and techniques to combat the distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This critical event underscores the nation's unwavering commitment to safeguarding children and dismantling networks that exploit them.
The training was attended by representatives from all Australian law enforcement agencies and was supported by leading organisations in the field of child protection, including ICMEC Australia, AiLECS Lab at Monash University, the Queensland Police Service's specialist unit Argos, and Child Rescue Coalition. Their expertise and dedication have been instrumental in equipping officers with the knowledge and skills needed to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Anna Bowden, CEO of the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC) Australia, highlighted the importance of the training:
“This program gave participants hands-on experience with the latest technological advancements and investigative techniques. ICMEC Australia is proud to sponsor this essential training for Australian law enforcement. We recognise the challenges faced in child protection cases and believe it’s crucial for those on the front lines to be equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to effectively fulfill their critical roles.”
Michael Donlan, CEO of CRC said “Child Rescue Coalition plays a unique role in the global online harms prevention ecosystem and we are proud of the difference we are making; our technology has resulted in 10's of thousands of offenders being arrested and even more children rescued from abuse. However, if we are to protect even more children, we need to work in partnership with key partners like ICMEC, academics and law enforcement partners to raise awareness and understanding. We are excited to be a part of this initiative!”
Detective Acting Superintendent Blanchfield from Queensland Police Service emphasised the significance of the training: “Child Protection Week is a reminder of the critical work that lies ahead in protecting our most vulnerable. This intensive training has strengthened our collective resolve and provided us with the cutting-edge tools needed to combat the distribution of child sexual abuse material more effectively.”
Associate Professor Campbell Wilson, Co-Director of AiLECS Lab from Monash University, added, “Collaboration between law enforcement, academic institutions and child protection organisations is vital in developing innovative solutions to this global problem. The support from ICMEC Australia and Child Rescue Coalition has been invaluable in making this training possible.”
ICMEC Australia and Child Rescue Coalition have long been at the forefront of efforts to protect children from exploitation. Their support in this initiative highlights their ongoing commitment to empowering law enforcement with the resources necessary to combat CSAM.
This intensive training is just one part of a broader strategy to enhance the capabilities of Australian law enforcement agencies in the fight against child exploitation. As Child Protection Week draws to a close, the participants leave the training with renewed determination and enhanced skills to continue their vital work in protecting children.
The training event will finalise on Friday 6 September. Representatives are available for interview.
Ends-
For further information, please contact:
Professor Jon Rouse: jon.rouse@monash.edu +61 416 120 663
About Child Protection Week Child Protection Week is an annual event in Australia dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of safeguarding children and preventing child abuse. It brings together communities, organizations, and professionals committed to protecting children and advocating for their rights.
About ICMEC Australia The International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC) Australia is a key advocate against online-facilitated child sexual exploitation (CSE), boldly confronting this issue alongside a coalition of partners. Their mission is to support and empower professionals in detecting, reporting, prosecuting, and preventing CSE. As an independent not-for-profit, ICMEC Australia collaborates with financial services, law enforcement, policymakers, academics, and NGOs to develop tools and strategies that protect children. Through data-driven initiatives, training, and research, ICMEC Australia is dedicated to creating a safer world for children.
About AiLECS Lab Born out of research collaboration on accelerating digital forensics and countering online child exploitation, AiLECS Lab is a formal collaboration between Monash University and the Australian Federal Police, and undertakes research and development to create the next generation of AI systems for law enforcement and community safety applications.
About Queensland Police Service Argos Unit The Argos Unit is a specialist branch of the Queensland Police Service, recognised internationally for its efforts in combating child exploitation and online child sexual abuse.
About Child Rescue Coalition Child Rescue Coalition is a nonprofit organisation that uses technology to protect children from sexual exploitation. Their work involves developing tools and resources to aid law enforcement in identifying and apprehending offenders.
Recent press coverage and events in Australia have sparked widespread discussions about online safety, highlighting the way technology has increasingly integrated into our daily lives, particularly for children. Concerns about online harms have surged to the forefront of public consciousness, prompting a call for urgent action.
ICMEC Australia welcomes the recent decision by the Federal Government to enforce stronger measures preventing Australian children from accessing explicit online content. This initiative represents a key step in shielding children from harmful exposure to pornography and artificial intelligence-generated sexual content online.
It is evident that there is a lot more work to be done in this space and a pressing need for comprehensive online safety measures to protect individuals, especially children from online threats. With sextortion increasing along with the prevalence of AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM), there is an urgency for us to act. We strongly support the unrelenting efforts of the eSafety Commissioner in online child protection and in setting a global standard for responding to this crime.
We must take a collaborative approach, with all stakeholders playing a role in fostering a safer online environment. By fostering partnerships between government, industry, educators, parents, and young people themselves, Australia can cultivate a culture of responsibility and accountability in the digital space.
The Online Safety Act typically undergoes a review every three years. However, in response to the rapid changes in the online landscape since 2021, the process has been brought forward. The Australian Government is now asking for input and insights into the review process. ICMEC Australia is committed to prioritising child protection, and we encourage you to join us in ensuring it remains a top priority. You can contribute by submitting your input to The Act here.
Together, we can work towards creating a safer and more secure online world for children.
ICMEC Australia acknowledges Traditional Owners throughout Australia and their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and Elders past and present.
