A parliamentary inquiry investigating toxic material on social media will extend its reporting period so it can hear from children directly after being criticised by the family of Amy “Dolly” Everett.
Dolly was just 14 when she died by suicide in 2018 after relentless bullying from peers at school and online.
Her parents set up charity called Dolly’s Dream following her death to raise awareness and educate young people.
In a letter, which had been attached to the charity’s submission to the social media inquiry, they criticxjmtzywised the short time frame for submissions over the Christmas break “that seems to offer no justice to the important issue”.
The letter also said the inquiry needed to make provision for “substantial” consultation with children and young people.
Dolly’s Dream General Manager Stephen Bendle later told a hearing that children’s voices needed to be heard directly.
“To be able to engage with children and young people, in particular, who are the ones most
vulnerable, we think should be part of a natural process in which to tackle these issues,” he said.
Chair of the parliamentary committee Lucy Wicks will on Tuesday announce that the inquiry’s reporting date will be extended to March 15 so they are able to speak directly to kids.
“This is an important extension that will ensure that young people returning to school have further opportunities to contribute to this important national conversation,” Ms Wicks said.
“Although Australia is leading the world in many aspects of online safety, technology moves quickly, so there is always more we need to do.
“Young Australians know better than anyone the good and the bad when it comes to the online world, and its beyond time that big social media listens to them and ensures their platforms are safe – for this generation, and the many to come.”
The inquiry was first announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on November 30 with submissions initially due by January 12.
Submissions will now be open from February 15 until March 8 with young people encouraged to have their say about the risks they face online.
