New child sexual abuse laws proposed

Draft laws introduced to parliament make it a crime for commonwealth officers to fail to protect children under their care from sexual abuse.

Federal officers who fail to protect children from sexual abuse while under their care could face up to five years in jail under proposed new laws.

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton has introduced legislation to the lower house following up from the royal commission into child sexual abuse, which also makes it a criminal offence if a commonwealth officer fails to report abuse.

"The safety of our children should always be put first," he said.

"The Commonwealth has zero tolerance for child sexual abuse and expects all commonwealth officers who are charged with caring and supervising children to fulfil their obligations and protect these children."

The draft laws also criminalise the possession of child-like sex dolls, to ensure they are "clearly and robustly stamped out in Australia".

Forced marriage is also targeted in order to increase protections for children.

All marriages involving children under the age of 16 will be deemed forced, while the draft laws also narrow the defence for Australian offenders who marry young people overseas.

"Together, as a civilised society, we can demonstrate we're committed to ensuring children can grow up free from the evil of sexual abuse and exploitation," Mr Dutton said.