Australia Announces Digital Duty of Care for Tech Firms

The Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has announced plans to impose a 'Digital Duty of Care' on tech companies to safeguard users, particularly children, from online harms. This initiative shifts responsibility onto platforms like Google, Meta, and TikTok, requiring them to proactively assess and mitigate risks associated with harmful content. While the proposal to ban social media for those under 16 has been criticized as unworkable, the duty of care aligns with similar regulations in the UK and EU, focusing on prevention over reaction. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the need for a systemic approach, including strong penalties for non-compliance, to create safer digital environments. The legislation seeks to align with global trends in online safety, enhancing the current Online Safety Act by integrating safety-by-design principles. This comprehensive framework aims to protect users' mental health and address misinformation and disinformation, reflecting a global effort to enhance digital safety.