Telco Together Foundation urges action on digital abuse in review

The commencement of the federal government's 'rapid review' into the prevention of violence against women has prompted calls for a more robust approach to tackling digital abuse. Kristy Kelly from the Telco Together Foundation has highlighted significant gaps in policies that specifically target the misuse of technology to perpetrate abuse.

Despite increasing reliance on digital technologies, Kelly underscored the rising prevalence of digital abuse, which includes cyberstalking, online harassment, and the use of tracking technologies. Perpetrators are increasingly using social media, messaging applications, and other online tools to exert control, instil fear, and cause harm. In her view, the recent Budget's lack of comprehensive measures to address these issues is a significant oversight in protecting vulnerable communities.

Kelly urged the government to prioritise and invest in initiatives to combat the technological dimensions of domestic and family violence. She called for funding for research, the development of robust legislative frameworks, and the provision of more resources for education and support services across all tech industries, including telecommunications. Such actions, Kelly asserted, are crucial to creating a safer digital environment for Australians.

"By tackling the technological dimensions of domestic and family violence through investment, research, education, and legislation, we can create an online space that is safer for all," she stated. The Telco Together Foundation remains committed to advocating for these essential changes and is working closely with stakeholders such as the federal government and Australia's eSafety Commissioner to develop effective solutions.

Kristy Kelly, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer at Telco Together Foundation, brings over two decades of experience as a senior leader in People & Culture within Australia's telecommunications sector. Her career has seen her hold pivotal roles at major telecommunication firms such as 3 Mobile, Vodafone Hutchison Australia, and TPG Telecom, where she has led diverse teams to deliver organisational impacts that benefit customers and communities nationwide.

Dedicated to nurturing curious, humane, and skilled leaders, Kelly is driven by a mission to foster positive change and collective impact. Under her leadership, the Telco Together Foundation aims to drive collaboration among Australia's most influential telecommunication companies to address significant societal issues, including the misuse of digital technology in domestic violence.

The call to address digital abuse comes amid increasing recognition of the multifaceted nature of domestic violence, which now extends into the digital realm. With technology playing an ever-growing role in daily life, the need for policies and protective measures that consider the potential for its misuse has never been more critical. The inclusion of comprehensive strategies to address digital abuse could significantly enhance the effectiveness of efforts to prevent violence against women and protect vulnerable communities.