Taxpayer-funded website for paedophiles quietly drops advice on sexual fantasies about children after backlash – as Albanese government is accused of ‘covering their tracks’

The Albanese government has revised a taxpayer-funded website for people concerned about sexual thoughts towards children, removing several modules after criticism that their wording could downplay the risk of abuse. The changes followed public backlash and a review involving the Attorney-General’s Department and the service provider.

The removed advice included a suggestion to focus on physical sensations during masturbation and not to “beat yourself up” over fantasies, as well as material comparing efforts to change sexual attraction to children with gay conversion therapy. The website launched in April under a $9.6 million government programme. A child protection expert said people seeking help need linked specialist support, while an opposition spokesperson questioned who approved and removed the material.