Australia should “very seriously” consider banning depictions of strangulation or suffocation in pornography, according to Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek, who has signalled her support for a move similar to laws introduced in the UK.
Calls for reform have intensified following the death of a 16‑year‑old Sydney girl, which police are treating as a suspected sexual choking incident. Advocates say the tragedy highlights a dangerous trend among young people influenced by violent sexual content.
Plibersek pointed to a 2024 study showing 57 per cent of Australians aged 18 to 35 have experienced strangulation during sexual encounters a statistic she described as deeply concerning. She said Australia should closely examine the UK’s decision last year to make it a criminal offence to possess or publish pornography showing strangulation or suffocation.
The minister said the prevalence of choking in sexual behaviour among young people cannot be separated from what they are exposed to online, adding that Australia must confront the issue with urgency.
As pressure builds from advocates and community groups, the debate over regulating violent sexual content is expected to intensify in the coming months.
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