Laws targeting online trolls welcomed by Victorian mental health advocate John Parkinson

Warrnambool mental health advocate John Parkinson said he had witnessed the damage online attacks had on people's health and well-being.

"It is just cruel," Mr Parkinson said. "I don't know what motivates them."

Mr Parkinson said people needed to realise the impact their words - in person and online - could have on another person. "I have very little tolerance for bullies and smart alecs," he said.

"They don't realise the impact they have on someone who is vulnerable."

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Mr Parkinson said he welcomed any measures that would deter people from bullying, harassing or intimidating another person.

He also urged people to call out inappropriate behaviour.

"I've been talking a lot to groups about having the courage to reach out but also speak out - to call it out when you see something that is damaging another person."

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced reforms to address harm caused by trolls, bots and bigots.

Wannon MP Dan Tehan said the government was committed to protecting Australians from online harm.

"These reforms are about ensuring that families and business across Wannon will be protected from harmful defamatory comments made by anonymous trolls online," he said.

"These reforms are about ensuring that families and business across Wannon will be protected from harmful defamatory comments made by anonymous trolls online."

Mr Morrison said the reforms would also empower Australians to 'unmask' online trolls who posted defamatory comments anonymously.

"Under the new powers, social media companies will be declared publishers and will be held liable for any defamatory remarks, unless they assist to identify anonymous trolls and resolve disputes," he said.

"These will be among the strongest powers to tackle online trolls in the world. If we are going to be a world-leading digital economy, then it is critical Australians can trust the safety and security of the online world."