MEMBER for Northern Victoria Georgie Purcell says the “relentless waves” of abuse towards her on social media has “taken their toll”.
The first-term Animal Justice Party MP announced on Tuesday that her comments section on Facebook would from now on automatically filter out abusive content.
“I’ve sat with this decision for a while, unsure with how to put it into words,” Ms Purcell said.
“But it honestly feels like the best decision moving forward.
“The reality is, the relentless waves of abuse I’ve copped have taken their toll.”
Ms Purcell has been subjected to a relentless barrage of misogynistic abuse, rape and death threats on social media.
There were several points last year when the upper house MP thought about quitting politics.
The online abuse has stemmed from her colourful past as a former topless waitress and stripper before entering politics.
Her stance against duck hunting and jumps racing as an MP has also sparked abuse on her posts.
“I can no longer wake up every morning instantly anxious to open my apps, but more importantly, I can’t let the reality of what comes with being a woman in public life impact my ability to do my job,” Ms Purcell said.
“I’m doing this to protect my mental health and to ensure I have the stamina to continue.
“Also, so I can check in and engage with you here without being constantly bombarded with abuse.
“Social Protect detects and deletes abusive social media comments in real time. It means abusive comments will be investigated to determine whether further legal action is necessary.
“The online world is a scary place right now, and I’m grateful to the creator of Social Protect, Shane Britten, for taking real action where our governments and Meta refuse to.
“This isn’t about silencing criticism or shutting down meaningful discussion.
“It’s about creating space to engage when I’m mentally prepared, rather than scrolling through targeted abuse day after day.
“And, with the filters we’ve put on, it should work just like that.”
Ms Purcell said this will also “protect all of you from being exposed to some of the vile comments made to me here”.
“No one should have to endure relentless harassment just for doing their job,” she said.
“That’s why, by taking this step, I can continue showing up for you and engaging in the conversations that matter, without sacrificing my wellbeing.”
