Australia’s internet safety regulator has rejected concerns that proposed online safety legislation could lead to widespread censorship, arguing that technology companies remain focused on maximising user engagement rather than restricting harmful content.
Speaking at a Senate inquiry on Tuesday, eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said she had seen no clear evidence of widespread over-censorship by major technology platforms.
The proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation would require internet companies to identify and address potential online harms, with penalties of up to A$109 million ($75 million) for companies that fail to meet their obligations.
However, Google, Meta, TikTok and Snap have warned that the legislation could give regulators excessive powers and encourage platforms to remove lawful content to avoid penalties.
Google also raised concerns that age-verification requirements could potentially affect under-18s’ access to services such as Gmail.
Inman Grant acknowledged that clearer definitions of harmful content could improve enforcement, adding that excessive content removal often results from automated moderation systems without adequate human oversight.
The bill has passed Australia’s House of Representatives but still needs support in the Senate to become law.
The debate highlights the challenge of strengthening online safety while protecting freedom of expression.
Leave a comment