Online predator law change supported

Police will have new powers to protect children from online predators under a federal law change announced by Justice Minister Michael Keenan.

The law change was sparked by the February 2007 murder of teenager Carly Ryan by a 50-year-old pedophile, who posed as an 18-year-old to lure Carly to a meeting.

Mr Keenan also unveiled a permanent memorial to 15-year-old Carly's life - a quilt made by the South Australian Quilters' Guild from some of her favourite clothing.

"This is a testament to Sonya Ryan (Carly's mother), who has turned a story about the loss of a life into one that will now save many lives," Mr Keenan told a function in Parliament House on Thursday.

"Today, she has achieved what she set out to do; a law that will protect young Australians and serve as an enduring legacy for Carly."

Sonya said if Carly was present she would have said of the quilt: "Mum, why are my pyjamas in parliament?"

"She was such a compassionate and loving girl, and really today is about acknowledging her legacy and acknowledging the difference this has made to Australian children."

The law, also championed by crossbench senator Nick Xenophon, makes it a crime for an adult to use the internet to commit an act in preparation for, or planning to, cause harm to or engage in or procure sexual activity with a minor.

It also includes those who misrepresent their age.

Offenders face 10 years in jail.

A working group involving federal and state authorities is due to report by the end of the year on sex offender registration schemes, the restriction of overseas travel by convicted child sex offenders and public notification.