What’s happening?
13 DOLLY is now live. Launched by Dolly’s Dream, the confidential support service offers both phone and web chat access for bullying support.
The national anti-bullying organisation says the service connects kids, teens and parents directly to a qualified Kids Helpline or ParentLine counsellor.
The service has been designed to ensure young people and families can reach trained support in more than one way.
Why it matters
Support must be simple and accessible, especially for young people who may already feel isolated.
“We are proud to be launching 13 DOLLY, our Bullying Support Line, considering the number of young people currently using AI in Australia,” said Sally Sweeney, Head of Dolly’s Dream.
She said while AI tools may be widely used, they cannot replace qualified human guidance.
She said AI cannot offer the safety or qualified support of a trained counsellor.
“13 DOLLY provides that vital, real connection and that’s why we’ve created a web chat service alongside our phone line,” she said.
“Our message to kids is clear. If you’re getting bullied, please turn to a human at 13 DOLLY, not an algorithm.”
By the numbers
Polling conducted by Dolly’s Dream informed the service model and delivery format.
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65% of 374 Australian parents surveyed this month said their child uses AI tools.
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Of those young AI users, 92% were aged 13 to 20, while 3% were under nine years old.
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In a separate TikTok poll of 96 respondents, 76% said they preferred online chat when reaching out to an organisation for support.
Zoom in
The strong preference for chat shaped the structure of 13 DOLLY.
Alongside the phone line, a web based option ensures young people can type rather than talk if they choose.
In both formats, the person responding is a qualified counsellor through Kids Helpline or ParentLine.
Zoom out
Dolly’s Dream has asked that 13 DOLLY support line details be included in all reporting on bullying.
The organisation says visibility is key so that families know where to turn when bullying occurs.
What to look for next
We hope awareness of 13 DOLLY to grow as schools, parents and community networks share the number. Support is available now.
Phone 13 DOLLY, 13 36 559
Search 13 DOLLY or visit dollysdream.org.au
