A new initiative to prevent cyber-bullies targeting teenagers online could see abusers banned from social media.
The idea would ban trolls from contacting their victims through platforms including Facebook and Instagram.
Anti-bullying charities have utilised a powerful parliamentary inquiry to encourage criminalising the unnecessary and harmful use of technology.
The idea to prevent cyber-bullies from accessing social media follows the tragic death of Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett, 14, (pictured) who ended her life after bullies targeted her online
In 2016 Kodi (pictured right with sister Tayla), 16, saw no other way out but to end his life after nasty bullies online and at school tormented him
The proposal follows the tragic death of Amy ‘Dolly’ Everett, 14, who ended her life after bullies targeted her online, the Daily Telegraph reported.
Child cyber-bullies could likely be issued a ‘social media order’ – an online version of an apprehended violence order as part of the radical plan to stop cyber-bullying.
The recommendation has been backed by The Carly Ryan Foundation who believe the federal government have a responsibility to create a similar process around online targeting as what exists for domestic violence.
The cyber-safety charity was established after 15-year-old Carly was killed by a paedophile in 2007.
In a submission, supported by online-safety campaigners, families who have lost children and lawyers, Carly’s mother cited police should have the ability to block proven bullies altogether for decided amounts of time.
Tayla Pearson and her family honour the memory of her brother, Kodi, who died in 2016
Libby Bell (pictured) 13, took her own life after she became the victim of bullying.
‘Something like this would put youth on notice and give them the opportunity to do the right thing,’ she said.
Ms Ryan would like to see prevention methods introduced so no child ever gets to the point where they feel like they have no other way out.
She believes obligatory education programs would be included in the program.
In 2016 Quentin Pearson’s son Kodi, 16, saw no other way but to end his life after nasty bullies online and at school tormented him.
Mr Pearson supports the introduction of the social media ban for trolls.
‘Something needs to be put in place so they will think twice before they post a horrible message,’ he said.