There are few topics as distressing as the online sexual abuse of children, which is likely why this fast growing issue – relevant to any child with access to a computer or iPhone – remains largely under the radar. The Children in the Pictures seeks to end the silence by ensuring the issue enters public consciousness and that the law enforcement sector is adequately informed.  

The Children in the Pictures provides unprecedented access to the operations of Task Force Argos, an Australian-based team of the world’s best detectives dedicated to infiltrating global criminal networks and rescuing children from online sexual abuse.

The documentary is now being used by key organisations including embassies, law enforcement agencies and child safety focused agencies to inform their workforce and support the professional development of their staff who are responsible for preventative action and rescuing children.

Queensland Police Investigators have attended virtual and in-person screenings in New York, Vienna, London, Brussels, Los Angeles and Washington DC, Ottawa and elsewhere to highlight the world-leading work of Queensland Police and build capacity globally in this field.  

The Children in the Pictures impact has extended beyond law enforcement, by shifting public understanding of this technology-driven crisis. After reaching hundreds of thousands of audiences globally via cinemas, SBS broadcast, festivals and community screenings, research found that 90% of parents and caregivers later initiated a discussion about online safety with their children. The documentary and the issues it raises have been covered extensively in nearly 100 media articles, sparking critical conversations and resulting in a 20% decline in the incorrect use of the term ‘child pornography’ since the release of the film. The documentary has also been brought to key decision makers and influenced much needed policy responses, through two Australian parliamentary screenings and three UN screenings. The film was the centrepiece of the UN General Assembly in 2023.