The Australian government is seeking the support of major technology companies as it moves to strengthen online safety laws and introduce new regulations for artificial intelligence.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made the appeal during a meeting with Apple Executive Chairman Tim Cook at the company’s headquarters in Cupertino, California.
Albanese said Australia could not tackle the risks associated with online platforms and artificial intelligence alone, particularly when it comes to protecting children from online harm.
“We’re putting stronger rules in place to keep Australians safe online,” Albanese said, adding that major technology companies such as Apple were also taking steps to improve online safety.
The Australian government plans to introduce new standards for artificial intelligence by the end of 2026. Albanese said his Labor government was working to ensure that technology serves Australians rather than creating new risks for them.
Cook said Apple had shared with Albanese new controls designed to help parents and children stay safer online.
Australia also unveiled draft legislation earlier this month that would impose a “duty of care” on companies operating major social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. The proposed law would also allow users to disable algorithmic recommendations.
The legislation is expected to be introduced to parliament later this year following consultations with social media companies, industry organisations and civil society groups.
However, Australia’s opposition Liberal-National Coalition has rejected the bill in its current form, arguing that it does not provide sufficient safeguards for free speech and journalism and gives too much authority to the communications minister.
Australia also introduced a law last year banning children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms, in an effort to address online bullying and risks associated with algorithms.
Despite the ban, recent data showed that some Australians under 16 were still accessing platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.
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