Australia is set to introduce a new “Digital Duty of Care” aimed at holding social media platforms accountable for preventing online harms such as bullying, predatory behavior, and the promotion of destructive content. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland announced that the proposed changes to the Online Safety Act would require digital platforms to take proactive measures to protect Australians, ensuring a safer online environment. The government plans to introduce world-first legislation next week that would ban children under 16 from using platforms like X, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
Critics, however, argue that removing children from social media might reduce incentives for platforms to create safer spaces for users. Social media has been blamed for contributing to an increase in children suffering from mental health issues, including suicidal tendencies and eating disorders, often exacerbated by bullying and negative body image content.
Rowland explained that this approach to online safety has already been adopted in countries like the UK and the European Union. Digital platforms would be legally required to assess risks and mitigate potential harms proactively. The legislation would also emphasize “safety-by-design” principles to ensure that platforms continuously identify and address risks as technology evolves. The focus would be on protecting young people’s mental well-being, preventing harmful practices, and curbing illegal activities online.
The Digital Industry Group Inc. (DIGI), an advocate for digital businesses in Australia, welcomed the government’s initiative to strengthen the Online Safety Act. DIGI’s managing director, Sunita Bose, expressed support for the idea of “safety-by-design” and confirmed that their members would continue to work with the government to improve online safety. Meanwhile, digital media expert Belinda Barnet from Swinburne University praised the Digital Duty of Care as a positive step forward in addressing online harms.
