Jail-time for Bullies
Bullies could face up to 10-years jail time if parliament adopts new legislation tabled earlier this week.
The Crimes Amendment (Bullying) Bill 2011 expands the current offence of stalking to include serious bullying.
The Attorney-General Robert Clark says bullying is a serious crime, which should carry a serious jail term.
“Victorian families are entitled to be confident that when their children start out in the workforce, they will be protected from falling victim to bullying,” Mr Clark said.
Under the proposed legislation, any action that causes physical or mental harm to a victim -such as threats or abusive words - may fall within the category of stalking.
The definition of harm has also been broadened to include self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
Similar legislative changes are also slated to ensure bullying victims can protect themselves by taking action such as applying an intervention order.