Campaign warns child abuse offenders of consequences

CRIME Stoppers Victoria (CSV) and Victoria Police have launched a confronting new campaign with a blunt warning to offenders: if you view child abuse material, you lose everything.

Viewing or sharing child abuse material, including written text-based material, is a serious crime with devastating consequences.

Offenders may believe their actions are hidden behind a screen, but the reality is that viewing child abuse material destroys lives, including their own.

The ‘What Are You Watching?’ campaign confronts offenders with this truth: your people will disown you if you commit this crime — your friends, your family, your freedom, your future are all at risk.

CSV chief executive officer Stella Smith said there could be no misunderstanding about the seriousness of these offences.

“Viewing or sharing child abuse material is a deplorable crime. Offenders face arrest, prosecution, public shame, entry on the sex offenders register and lifelong restrictions on their freedom and employment.

“They will also lose the respect of family, friends and community, and their actions will not be forgotten. The shame associated with this crime will destroy you.”

“Our message is clear: if you view child abuse material, you lose everything.”

Detective Superintendent Tim McKinney from Victoria Police’s cybercrime division said the prevalence of child abuse material in society was only growing, and there is no set idea of what an offender looks like.

“It can be anyone — a young person in their teens, someone who is married with a family, people in relationships.

“Our investigators work tirelessly alongside our partners across Australia and around the world to prevent the abuse of children and ensure offenders are put before the courts to be held accountable for their abhorrent actions.

“Every online action is traceable, and the message could not be clearer — if you engage in these horrific activities, you will be caught.”

The campaign also urges people at risk of offending to seek help before their behaviour escalates.

Services such as Stop It Now! Australia provide free and anonymous support for individuals struggling with harmful sexual thoughts or behaviours towards children, including those who have already engaged in illegal activity such as accessing child abuse material online.

The service also offers advice and guidance to people concerned about someone else’s behaviour.

Crime Stoppers Victoria is also calling on the community to play a role in protecting children.

If you suspect someone is getting access to or sharing child abuse material, make a report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au or phone 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.