Pornography Ban
Page: 2016
Reverend the Hon. Dr GORDON MOYES: I ask the Minister for Eduction and Training, representing the Attorney General, a question without notice. Is the Attorney General aware of the view that holds that there is a causal nexus between the viewing of X-rated pornography and sexual abuse and other violent behaviour? In light of the Federal Government's recent plan to ban X-rated pornography in the Northern Territory due to its contribution to the child sexual abuse crisis there, can the Attorney General outline what moves will be taken by the New South Wales Government to eradicate pornography in both indigenous and non-indigenous areas of disadvantage?
The Hon. JOHN DELLA BOSCA: I thank the honourable member for his very good question. Yes, I am aware of the debate around this issue, and I think most informed people would have examined this debate over the years. I think the professional and scientific areas have different opinions and have sometimes produced conflicting evidence about the issue of causality and exposure to pornographic materials. The matter would be under the purview and the constant view of the Attorney General and I will refer that aspect of the member's question to him. I am sure he will be able to provide the honourable member with a detailed answer.
The second part of the question, which was a very interesting reflection on current events, is the extent to which it might be applicable to look at similar principles to those advocated by the Commonwealth in relation to current interventions in the Northern Territory in isolated and indigenous communities. I am not sure of the applicability but it indicates one of the difficulties of implementing some of the proposals, as we now understand them. I will leave my comments at that and ask the Attorney General to provide the balance of the answer to the member's question.