Digital bill targets AI interactions

Australia is developing a "digital due diligence" bill to regulate online interactions, with a focus on banning emotional intimacy with artificial intelligence to protect vulnerable users. The legislation, introduced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party, builds on the country’s earlier ban on social media for users under 16 years old.

Law aims to improve online safety

The proposed law seeks to establish new online safety standards for social networks, online games, apps, and conversational agents. It aims to create a "global obligation" to ensure a safe online environment for all Australians, according to The Guardian.

Users may opt out of algorithmic content

One part of the bill would allow users to opt out of algorithm-generated content streams, instead seeing only content from creators and people they follow. An amendment would require platforms to make this option clearly visible, avoiding hiding it in menus or settings.

Bill addresses harmful content

The legislation could also help identify content deemed harmful, such as material promoting misogyny, terrorism, suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders. This content would be restricted from reaching vulnerable users, according to the proposed law.

Critics call it censorship

The bill has faced criticism from right-wing and conservative groups, who describe it as an "Orwellian censorship system" and accuse the government of trying to control online speech. Communications Minister Anika Wells dismissed these claims and urged opponents to submit amendments rather than reject the law outright.

Amendments focus on AI and oversight

An amendment approved by the lower house would classify certain behaviors of conversational agents as harmful content, requiring platforms to prohibit interactions that simulate emotional intimacy and encourage dependency in children. Another amendment, proposed by independent MP Sophie Scamps, would assign the Australian Communications and Media Authority the role of "watchdog" for digital industry practices. While the Labor Party did not adopt this amendment, it may be considered by the Australian Greens in the Senate.

Australia leads in digital regulation

Australia was the first country to ban social media for those under 16 years old, though the policy had limited success. The new bill may influence future digital regulations worldwide, as it introduces stricter controls on online platforms and AI interactions.