A PARLIAMENTARY report examining the sexualisation of children has been completed, producing two findings, one recommendation, and 14 proposals for further action.
The Commissioner for Children and Young People’s 2013 report on the sexualisation of children was presented to State Parliament on June 26.
The report summarises the problem and proposes some ideas for research and further action. Its only recommendation is that the State’s Attorney General Michael Mischin examine the report and its proposals.
The report found that “there is much concern amongst parents and the broader society regarding the sexualisation of children”.
“While the impact of sexualisation on children is difficult to quantitatively measure, and to distinguish from other influences in their lives, this does not mean that the issue should not be addressed,” the report stated.
It proposed, among other things, that consideration be made to prohibit the sale and supply of R18+ computer games, and that WA’s regulations regarding outdoor advertising be reviewed.
It also suggested addressing sexually explicit music videos, monitoring the rise of “sexting”, regulating child beauty pageants and reviewing the use of children and youth in sexually provocative advertising.
Liberal MP Liz Behjat told The Record although the report was long overdue, it contained some important proposals that will be considered by the Attorney General.
“We have all been talking about these issues for too long now without any real action being taken,” she said.
“I know that there have been a few wins along the way when it comes to advertising and the sale of inappropriate clothing to predominantly young girls but there is a lot more than can be done.
“It is heartening to see influential companies such as Google now taking a strong stand against pornography on the internet and doing what they can to ensure that pornographic advertising is no longer available for access.”
Ms Behjat said it was important for Western Australians who have strong feelings about the sexualisation of children to raise their concerns at every opportunity.
The report can be accessed at www.parliament.wa.gov.au.