A revitalised online reporting platform from Crime Stoppers NSW is now live, aimed at empowering communities, including those across the Western Plains, to report online crime with ease, from scams and cyberbullying to child abuse and other digital harms.

Peter Price, CEO, Crime Stoppers NSW told Western Plains App, that “the single‑minded purpose of this upgrade is to provide members of the community absolute ease with making reports to authorities when you go to the Crime Stoppers website.”

The new system introduces four distinct reporting avenues, simplifying how residents can flag criminal information, be it child abuse, scams, or online threats like cyberbullying.

“There are now four distinct avenues in order to help people make reports about criminal information, whether it's child abuse scams or online harm like cyberbullying, we've made it easier for the community to navigate where to report this information,” Mr Price said.

The initiative arrives at a time when cyber-related crime and abuse are escalating across Australia.

Nationally, eSafety reports a staggering 455 per cent increase in cyberbullying complaints over the past five years, with nearly 3,000 valid cases in 2024 alone.

The eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said cyberbullying reports tend to increase during the school term as online bullying is often an extension of bullying behaviour in the playground or classroom.

“We know the real-world consequences of cyberbullying can be devastating, particularly for young people,” Ms Inman Grant said.

“Unfortunately, we are seeing a significant proportion of cyberbullying complaints impacting young people aged 12 and 13, many of whom are navigating high school for the first time.

The eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said on-line bullying peaks during school holidays.

"And interestingly, girls are reporting cyberbullying at double the rate, compared to boys.

"Children aged 12 and 13 accounted for 35 per cent of reports in 2024.

"These numbers underscore growing risks, particularly for young teens beginning high school, a reality where the consequences of online harm can be deeply damaging."

The ability to easily report online is an advantage in close-knit regional areas where privacy is paramount.

“In addition to that, you can report to Crime Stoppers in complete confidence and in an online encrypted format on our website.

"You do not need to give your personal details.

"We are not interested in who you are, only what you know,” Mr Price said.

While the new online performing platform will be useful, Mr Price issued a caution about other on-line spaces.

“We also are pleading with people to not report criminal information on social media pages,” he said.

“Social media pages are social, for sharing stories and sharing information about your neighbourhood.

"If you share criminal information on social media, it could put you in harm’s way.”

Why This Matters in the Western Plains

Many regional towns face limited access to mental health resources and specialised support services, making safe reporting tools even more vital.

The Crime Stoppers upgrade provides a confidential, encrypted, and easy-to-navigate path for victims and bystanders to report online threats.

Coupled with national data showing escalating risks for young people, this tool offers essential protection for regional families.

By ensuring reports are secure and simple to make and reinforcing the importance of not airing such concerns via social media, Crime Stoppers NSW is reinforcing safety across regional communities.

When the digital world becomes daunting, residents now have a robust, local ally ready to listen and act.

The eSafety Commissioner has some great resources to help the community manage the digital space Spotlight on Cyberbullying resources.

Report abuse here: https://www.accce.gov.au/report