This report outlines proposed amendments to the Online Safety Act 2021, specifically the introduction of a minimum age of 16 for social media use and the legislation of a Digital Duty of Care for digital platforms. The report calls for these changes to be implemented within 12 months, recommending engagement and consultation with young people throughout the process.   

The report summarises evidence from stakeholders, including arguments for and against the bill. While acknowledging the complexities and potential drawbacks, the Committee ultimately recommends passing the bill.

The report includes dissenting reports from the Australian Greens and Senator Matt Canavan, as well as additional comments from Senator David Pocock. 

Recommendations

1. Legislate a Digital Duty of Care to place a legal obligation on digital platforms to protect their users.
2. The Australian Government meaningfully engage young people in the implementation of the legislation.
3. The Minister for Communications provide a progress report to the Parliament on the age assurance trial by no later than 30 September 2025.
4. Ban platforms from requiring users to use Digital ID or other government IDs like passports for age verification, and instead require them to offer alternative methods informed by the age assurance trial.
5. Commit to implementing this law within 12 months.
6. That there be appropriate consultation on all rule making associated with the bill.
7. Amend the review period for the legislation, such that an independent review of the proposed new Part 4A of the Online Safety Act 2021 is conducted within 18 months of the minimum age obligation taking effect.
8. Enable the Minister for Communications to have review power over any ‘reasonable step’ rules determined by the eSafety Commissioner.
9. Subject to consideration of the above recommendations, the Committee recommends that the bill be passed.