List of recommendations

Recommendation 1

2.105The committee recommends that the Australian Government legislate a Digital Duty of Care to place a legal obligation on digital platforms to take proactive steps to protect their users.

Recommendation 2

2.106The committee recommends that the Australian Government meaningfully engage young people in the implementation of the legislation.

Recommendation 3

2.107The committee recommends that the Minister for Communications provide a progress report to the Parliament on the Age Assurance trial by no later than 30 September 2025.

Recommendation 4

2.108The committee recommends that the bill be amended to prohibit providers of age restricted platforms from compelling a person to use an accredited service within the meaning of section 9 of the Digital ID Act 2024, or other government ID such as passports, and must set out alternative methods for assuring age as reasonable steps with consideration given to the age assurance trial.

Recommendation 5

2.109The committee recommends that the Minister for Communications provide a commitment to setting the implementation date within 12 months, not later.

Recommendation 6

2.110The committee recommends that there be appropriate consultation on all rule making associated with the bill.

Recommendation 7

2.111The committee recommends that the Australian Government 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 18months of the minimum age obligation taking effect.

Recommendation 8

2.112The committee recommends that the bill be amended to enable the Minister for Communications to have review power over any ‘reasonable step’ rules determined by the eSafety Commissioner.

Recommendation 9

2.113Subject to consideration of the above recommendations, the committee recommends that the bill be passed.