The latest episode of MSAB’s Forensic Fix Podcast features Sonya Ryan, founder of the Carly Ryan Foundation, in conversation with host Adam Firman. Sonya shares her personal story following the loss of her daughter Carly to an online predator and explains how the experience led to the creation of the foundation and the introduction of Carly’s Law in Australia.
The discussion explores the foundation’s work to promote online safety for children and empower young people with knowledge and resources. Sonya highlights the importance of education and awareness in preventing online exploitation, the need for mental health support for victims, and the role of community resilience in tackling online threats. She also calls for greater accountability from major technology companies and stresses the importance of legislation keeping pace with emerging technologies.
Sonya is currently collaborating with the Australian Institute of Criminology on a national study examining the potential impacts of the proposed Social Media Minimum Age Restrictions Bill. Australian schools participating in the study can also access a free, evidence-based online safety presentation delivered by Sonya through the Carly Ryan Foundation.
