Australia Introduces New Online Regulation Laws

Australia has introduced legislation to fine online platforms up to 5% of their global revenue for failing to prevent the spread of misinformation, targeting content that threatens election integrity, public health, and infrastructure. Platforms must set regulator-approved codes of conduct, or face fines for non-compliance. Free speech advocates have criticized the crackdown, but Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the necessity of addressing misinformation. Additionally, doxxing will be outlawed with penalties of up to seven years in jail, as part of broader reforms to update the Privacy Act. The measures reflect a global trend towards holding tech giants accountable for content on their platforms. Experts suggest that similar legislative actions might gain traction in other countries, although challenges remain.