The Albanese Government is putting the responsibility on big tech to make their online environments safer, with public consultation now open on a digital duty of care.
A digital duty of care will recognise that big tech companies have the technology, resources and responsibility to manage harms before they occur - rather than solely relying on individuals to report harmful material post exposure.
The Government is seeking views from the public to ensure the digital duty of care reflects the community's expectations of online protection.
Australians can have their say via an online survey with the feedback used to inform the development of this important reform.
Our commitment to online safety also includes the social media minimum age coming into effect from 10 December to protect young Australians, as well as work to restrict access to nudification and undetectable stalking services that cause serious harm.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, Anika Wells:
"A digital duty of care will force the online industry to take stronger action to keep users safe when they log on rather than the reactive system that exists now.
"Introducing a digital duty of care was a key recommendation of the Online Safety Act review and is another way the Albanese Government is taking action to ensure a safer online environment for Australians.
"Australia leads the world in online safety and we encourage everyone to have their say on the new digital duty of care so it too is world-leading."
