Peninsula parents will be relieved a new law to more tightly control the internet activity of sex offenders is likely to come into effect following pressure and youth forums instigated by Manly MP Mike Baird.

“In May the State Coalition proposed it become mandatory for convicted sex offenders to supply police with their email addresses,” said Mr Baird, who is also Shadow Minister for Youth Affairs.

“Currently there are few measures in place to protect children online – most parents do not know what sites their children visit and where they are most vulnerable to predators,” he said.

“We’re pleased that last night the Child Protection (Offenders Registration) Amendment Bill 2007 was passed in the Lower House.

“This will mean children will be much less vulnerable when visiting social networking websites as police can be notified if sex offenders are active on these sites.

“As it is an offence to withhold or lie about their home address when convicted, it will now be an offence for sex offenders not to provide their active email address.

“We’re pleased we have been able to influence the introduction of this legislation. We have urged the Government to consider further measures to protect children online, such as random computer checks of convicted offenders and ID checks at free internet terminals.”

MEDIA: Lisa Harrington - 0406 726 880

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