Australia’s proposed Digital Duty of Care laws face fresh scrutiny as a Senate inquiry begins hearing evidence from parents and experts today. The reforms would require technology companies to take greater responsibility for preventing harm on their platforms.
Under the bill, online services—including social media platforms, games and artificial intelligence chatbots—would have to meet minimum safety standards. Companies failing to comply could face penalties of up to $109.2 million.
The proposed protections cover seriously harmful material and conduct, with additional safeguards for children. Social media users would also gain greater control over their feeds, including the choice between algorithm-recommended content and posts from accounts they follow.
The changes would expand the eSafety Commissioner’s powers to target apps producing fake nude images and shorten required responses to cyberbullying and abuse complaints from 48 to 24 hours.
Communications Minister Anika Wells says the aim is to make platforms address risks before people are harmed. The inquiry will examine the proposed framework and hear evidence about its potential impact.
The measures remain proposed legislation and have not yet become law.
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