With the social media ban for under 16s now in full swing - and other countries now following suit - many are watching closely to see how it will all work.

But well before all this happened, Paul Litherland was working in Western Australia's technology crime unit.

He dealt personally with victims of cyber bullying, grooming and predatory behaviour, as well as their families, and the perpetrators themselves.

Over time, Paul realised he wanted to do more and he ultimately left the force to instead speak directly with thousands of children and young people around Australia - in a bid to stop online harm before it happens.

A warning that this interview mentions suicide and suicidal ideation. If the interview raises any concerns for you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.

• Guest: Paul Litherland is a former WA police officer and the founder of Surf Online Safe