Australia’s eSafety to Engage with US Tech Giants

Australia's eSafety Commissioner is set to meet with major US social media and AI companies in Silicon Valley and Los Angeles next week. This move comes as the implementation of a world-first ban on underage social media use approaches.

Julie Inman Grant's schedule includes meetings with Apple, Discord, OpenAI, Anthropic, Snapchat, and Character AI, with efforts to arrange discussions with Google and Meta. This initiative aligns with Australia's broader strategy to advocate for global social media regulation.

Inman Grant and Communications Minister Anika Wells announced their trip at a Sydney press conference, emphasizing the new regulatory guidance ahead of the December 10 ban implementation. Platforms must comply with the new laws or face fines up to $50 million.

Key requirements include detecting and deactivating accounts of users under 16, preventing new accounts, and providing review mechanisms. Australia will not dictate age-assurance methods, allowing platforms to choose their approach.

Wells highlighted international interest in Australia's legislation, with other nations considering similar measures. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently noted her interest in Australia's approach.

The eSafety Commission has developed self-assessment tools for tech companies to ensure compliance. Inman Grant expressed confidence in companies' willingness to adhere to Australian law, warning of legal action if they fail to comply.