Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is seeking backing from major technology companies for tougher internet safety measures and greater regulation of artificial intelligence, following a meeting with former Apple chief executive Tim Cook in California.
Speaking after Saturday’s meeting at Apple’s headquarters, Albanese said Australia could not tackle the risks facing children online alone and called for greater cooperation from technology companies.
The push comes as Australia moves to strengthen its online safety framework after introducing legislation last year that bars children under 16 from social media platforms. The measure was aimed at reducing exposure to online bullying and potentially harmful recommendation algorithms.
The government has since proposed draft laws that would impose a duty of care on operators of major platforms, including Facebook, TikTok and Instagram. The proposals would also give users the option of switching off algorithmic recommendations.
The draft legislation is expected to be introduced to parliament later this year following consultations with social media companies, industry groups and civil society organisations. However, data released last month showed that under-16s continued to increase their use of platforms such as Instagram and TikTok despite the restrictions.
Albanese has also used his visit to the United States, where he is attending the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, to push for stronger safeguards around AI.
Australia plans to introduce new AI standards by the end of the year, with Albanese warning that regulation must ensure humans remain in control as the technology develops.
