Tech firms could end up blocking younger users from common digital tools under proposed Australian regulations. Under the planned Digital Duty of Care legislation, platforms must prove they are working to remove harmful content. Those who fail could be slapped with penalties up to A$109 million ($75.1 million).
The legislation has cleared the House of Representatives in Australia, but it still requires cross-party support to clear the Senate. Online platforms and free speech groups warn that the proposed rules give authorities too much power to declare what is harmful.
Fears over private messages
Concerns were raised directly during a Senate hearing. Officials noted that rules requiring age checks where children might encounter pornography could force tech platforms to lock minors out of normal services.
Other digital giants including Meta, TikTok and Snap shared matching worries. They stated the bill could chill online conversations and prompt firms to over-moderate to escape massive fines. Meanwhile, the Australian government maintains that wide rules are crucial to keep the internet safe.
“could require us to age assure and block access to everyday communication services like messaging, email and private file storage”Rachel Lord, head of policy in Australia and New Zealand for Google's YouTube streaming website
What happens next
The hearing continues.
