Nsw'S Bold Move To Shield Kids From Pornography: Are We Ready To Act?

NSW's Groundbreaking Inquiry

In August 2024, New South Wales made headlines as the first Australian state to launch an inquiry into the detrimental effects of harmful pornography on the mental, emotional, and physical health of its citizens. The state's Attorney-General, Michael Daly, acknowledged the tough road ahead, citing the unprecedented access today's youth have to online pornography, often depicting harmful treatment of women.

“For too long, there has been insufficient proactive resistance to the proliferation of harmful pornography,” Daly emphasized, highlighting a growing concern echoed by nations worldwide. Countries like the UK have enforced stringent regulations against explicit content, putting pressure on platforms to curb the spread of harmful depictions.

Despite the inquiry's robust findings, the response from the government has been lukewarm, with Daly's four-page reply falling short of tackling the inquiry's 17 recommendations head-on. The state seems more focused on existing projects than charting a new course, highlighting a need for more decisive action.

Revealing Insights and Consequences

The inquiry didn't shy away from hard truths, revealing that children as young as 13 are encountering pornography online. It’s not just innocent nudity; today's mainstream content often portrays aggressive masculinity, racism, and harmful sexual behaviors. This content is shaping young minds, leading to reduced self-esteem, increased addictive behaviors, and a skewed view of relationships.

Moreover, the inquiry criticized current sexual education, which falls short for many young people. The gap left by education is increasingly being filled by online pornography, raising a generation with potentially harmful perspectives on sex and relationships.

“Without proactive measures, we risk leaving children's education in the hands of the pornography industry," warned Maree Crabbe, Director of It’s Time We Talked.

The inquiry urges enhanced investment in services for children at risk of engaging in harmful behaviors. Alarmingly, data indicates a rise in child-on-child abuse, largely influenced by their exposure to explicit content.

The Battle for Adequate Support

Currently, services like New Street Services and the Safe Wayz Program are overwhelmed, unable to meet the mounting demand for support. During the 2023–24 fiscal year, New Street Services received 414 referrals but could only assist 204 cases, leaving many without the support they urgently need. This shortfall poses risks not only to the individuals but to their families and communities at large.

Innovative solutions are on the horizon, like the philanthropically funded What’s OK? Australia initiative, which aims to provide anonymous early intervention through online support. Additionally, the CSAM Deterrence Centre is working to nip the spread of child sexual abuse material in the bud, a promising step even as Australia catches up with international efforts.

A Call for Leadership and Action

NSW is making strides, with $1.5 million earmarked for developing resources to guide parents in discussing pornography with their children, and efforts to weave these conversations into respectful relationships education in schools. Yet, the inquiry's findings demand more substantial efforts.

Without strong leadership and commitment, the risk remains that pornography will continue to shape young Australians’ perceptions of sexuality, with potentially devastating consequences. The inquiry has set the stage – now it’s time for action.