Responding to a question at her National Press Club address in Wodonga on Wednesday, Senator McKenzie said it was important to stand up, both online and in person, to people who make those comments.

The sexually explicit abuse of Carlton footballer Harris occurred in social media comments posted in response a photo taken by AFL Media's Michael Willson that displayed her distinctive kicking style and athleticism.

"What I saw when I saw that photo of Tayla was a strong, female, elite athlete doing her job and doing it very, very well," Senator McKenzie said.

"You can't be what you can't see and the more we have our fabulous elite female athletes front and centre, we're going to get more women and girls playing sport."

She said it was important to send a positive message to Harris and her supporters and build a "coalition of support" around women and female athletes.

Meanwhile, former Albury Tigers player Josh Mellington has made fun of retiring Collingwood AFLW player Cecilia McIntosh in response to her being chaired off the ground on the weekend.

"What a journeywoman, your longevity through the gruelling 8 match seasons over 3 years has taken its toll. Truly inspirational," he posted.

Others were quick to point out that McIntosh has still played more AFL games than Mellington did during his time at Fremantle and has been involved in other sports at a professional level.

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