Review of Tasmania's Stalking Laws (Chloe's Law)

Tasmanian Residents draw to the attention of the House the need for an urgent and thorough review of Tasmania's anti-bullying laws. The recent bullying-related death of 15 year old Chloe Ferguson has led to a public outpouring of grief and concern, with many others coming forward to speak out about the devastating effects of bullying, including cyber-bullying, in their lives and their children's lives. Over 22500 people have expressed support for stricter anti-bullying laws and their enforcement as part of a determined approach to addressing the ongoing problem of bullying. Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to respond to the high level of concern in the Tasmanian community about bullying, particularly cyber-bullying, in all possible ways, including a review of Tasmania's anti-bullying (stalking) laws to consider: 1. Inclusion of a more comprehensive list of behaviours that constitute bullying (stalking), including causing an unauthorised function in a computer or phone (for example 'hacking' another person's phone, Facebook or email), or tracking another person's use of the internet, email or other electronic communication. 2. Direct reference to collusion or 'ganging-up' on another person, particularly in regard to posting of offensive or unauthorised material in any place where comments are invited, and participation in the making of such comments. 3. Use of the word 'bullying' in the legislation, in addition to the current language of 'stalking,' so that the language of the law reflects the language of education based on the law. 4. Review the element of intent in the offence of bullying/stalking.