Intimate image abuse to be criminalised
A new Bill has been introduced that will make it an offence to intentionally record or distribute an intimate image of a person without their consent.
Under the Crimes Amendment (Intimate Images) Bill 2017, people who record or share intimate images without consent could be jailed for up to three years and fined as much as $11,000.
Intimate images include photos and videos of a person’s private parts or of a person engaged in a private act in circumstances where a reasonable person would expect privacy.
If an offender fails to take reasonable action to remove the material, they could face an additional two-year jail sentence and a $5500 fine.
Under the Bill it will also be an offence to threaten to record or distribute intimate images, providing victims with additional protection against controlling or threatening behaviour which can occur in abusive relationships.
Special consideration will be given to cases involving children under 16 to ensure the new offences do not inappropriately criminalise activity by, or between, young people.
NSW Government, Attorney General Mark Speakman this activity is a form of abuse that can cause significant distress to victims.
“This Bill will empower victims and provide them with the legal right to ensure that perpetrators can no longer get away with such disgraceful behaviour,” Mr Speakman said.
“Victims will be enabled to take a stand against privacy abuse.”
The introduction of the Bill into Parliament follows last week’s endorsement of the National Statement of Principles on Criminalisation of the Non-Consensual Sharing of Intimate Images by the Law, Crime and Community Safety Council.