111/07
Wednesday 15 August 2007
Howard Government acts to further protect children
The Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator the Hon Helen Coonan said today that the Howard Government was furthering its commitment to protecting children with new measures agreed today in relation to radio and television.
“In addition to the NetAlert – Protecting Australian Families Online initiative which will go live on Monday, the radio and television industry will investigate the short and long term effects of sexualised images of children.
“We take the issue of child exploitation on the internet, television and radio extremely seriously.
“The world leading $189 million NetAlert programme will help Australian families to manage their internet experience as well as provide tough new policing and enforcement measures.
“We are committed to tackling child exploitation from every angle, and today’s motion is another step in the process,” Senator Coonan said.
“ Reports about the sexualisation of children in the media are alarming to me, both as a parent and as Communications Minister, and I also know this concern is shared by the broader Australian community.
“This sexualisation can have a detrimental effect on children’s self esteem, emotional development and body image.
“Today, in recognition of these concerns, a joint motion was moved that will address the harmful effect of the sexualisation of our children in the media.”
Senator Coonan said that industry, currently conducting their three year review of the Commercial Television Industry Codes of Practice and the Commercial Radio Codes of Practice, will investigate who benefits from the sexualised images of children and the ramifications it can have on children.
“The Australian Communications and Media Authority must be satisfied that the industry review and any relevant recommendations reflect community values and standards and provide me with a detailed report by March 2008,” Senator Coonan said.
Media Contact: Katherine Meier 0417 441 141