Anne McEwen (SA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

At the request of Senators Bilyk and Polley, I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that:

(i) the 6th National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence is being held on Friday, 18 March 2016,

(ii) this annual day is Australia's key anti bullying event for schools, and encourages all students to 'take a stand together' against bullying and violence in schools, the classroom and beyond,

(iii) cyberbullying is a serious concern for young Australians, and it can happen at any time where there is access to online technology, and

(iv) everyone has a role to play to keep children safe from bullying and violence; and

(b) calls on the Government to urgently act to legislate against 'revenge porn' which is extremely distressing, demeaning and can lead to real world violence and harassment.

Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Stephen Parry (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute, Senator Ryan.

Scott Ryan (Victoria, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Thank you. The coalition government recognises that cyberbullying is an issue of concern. This week, the Children's eSafety Commissioner, Alastair MacGibbon, has been in Parliament House providing online safety training for MPs, senators and staff in preparation for the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.

Technology related crime is a complex issue which involves both state and Commonwealth offences, and we acknowledge that revenge porn is emerging as an issue of concern in the community. That is why this government put it on the COAG agenda to ensure that the Commonwealth, states and territories are working together to ensure there is a coordinated approach. COAG decided on 11 December 2015 that all jurisdictions would consider whether specific offences are necessary to prohibit the distribution of intimate images and a threat do so without consent.

At the Commonwealth level, it is already an offence to use the internet, social media or a mobile phone in a menacing, harassing or offensive manner. Under this offence, section 474.17 of the Criminal Code, there have been over 320 successful prosecutions for a broad range of conduct. The government understands the importance of ensuring that there are effective laws in this area and is considering the issue in consultation with law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and other experts.

Question agreed to.