Home / Technology / Australia Demands Big Tech Bolster Online Safety
Australia Demands Big Tech Bolster Online Safety
20 Sep
Summary
- Australia seeks global tech support for online safety and AI rules.
- New AI standards to be introduced in Australia by year-end.
- Proposed laws include a 'duty of care' for social media platforms.
Australia is actively engaging with major technology companies to strengthen its national laws concerning online safety and artificial intelligence (AI). Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently met with Apple CEO Tim Cook, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to protect children from online dangers.
During his visit to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly, Albanese also advocated for enhanced AI regulation. Australia plans to implement new AI standards by the close of the current year. The government aims to ensure technology serves Australians, not the other way around.
New draft legislation introduced this month proposes a 'duty of care' for companies operating popular platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. These laws would also empower users to disable platform algorithms. Following consultations with industry and civil society, the draft laws are expected to be presented to parliament later this year.
The opposition has voiced concerns, stating the bill in its present form lacks sufficient safeguards for free speech and journalism. Last year, Australia enacted legislation to ban social media use for children under 16, a measure intended to combat online bullying and predatory algorithms. However, recent data indicates continued usage of platforms like Instagram and TikTok by this age group despite the ban.
