The use of phone tracking apps (which allow parents to know the whereabouts of their child’s mobile phone at any time) is on the increase. Some parents may view this as a simple safety measure, for example to check their child got to their destination as planned. But there is also concern that being tracked may have negative impacts on children, implying a lack of trust, inhibiting self-reliance and independence, and normalising the idea of being constantly monitored.
“Normal” to be tracked?
According to a 2025 media release from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, nearly one in five young adults think it’s normal for a partner to track their location. Ms Grant said, “Young people have become so accustomed to a certain level of online tracking and monitoring by family and friends that it wouldn’t seem strange to expect similar digital access in a romantic relationship.”
You can read more about this issue:
- Tracking or Trusting? – ABC Life Matters report, including interviews with parents and experts.
- Phone Tracking: Should You Track your Child? – Article exploring the pros and cons from UK parenting advice website Rec Parenting.
- Youth support for tracking apps raises red flag for coercive control – Media release from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant
