Government child abuse prevention website under review after criticism over tone
Stop It Now Australia, which helps people concerned about child attraction, faces review over advice critics say is too sympathetic.
A government-funded child abuse website is under review. The debate centers on whether it goes too far in supporting people concerned about their sexual thoughts involving children.
Stop It Now Australia launched in April. The service runs a helpline and website.
These tell users not to "beat yourself up" about sexual thoughts of children but to seek professional help. Critics say the language seems too kind.
Supporters and experts say reducing shame helps people seek help before they harm a child. Since April, the service received 410 calls and more than 28,000 website visits.
The Attorney-General's Department confirmed the website has been changed and further review is underway. The Royal Commission into child sexual abuse recommended the service, which previous governments funded.
- April 2026
- Launch timing
- 410 calls, 28,000+ website visits
- Initial reach
- $9.6 million
- Government funding
- Royal Commission Recommendation 6.2
- Origin
Why it mattersAustralia is deciding how to balance preventing child abuse before it happens against public concerns that intervention services should not appear to normalise harmful thoughts.
AustraliaAustralians are grappling with how best to prevent child sexual abuse, and this service could shape policy on intervention versus punishment for years to come.
Corroborated by7news.com.au
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