Australia’s IJM supports eSafety Commissioner’s rejection of online safety codes

IJM Australia supported the e-Safety Commissioner’s decision to reject two online safety codes, focusing on protecting children and internet safety.

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The e-Safety Commissioner’s decision to reject two online safety codes drawn up by the internet industry has been supported by Australia’s International Legal Mission (IJM Australia).

Julie Inman Grant, the eSafety Commissioner, chose not to register two of the eight online safety codes (DIS and RES), which include apps, websites, cloud storage services including Apple iCloud and Microsoft OneDrive, dating sites, online gaming, and instant messaging.

IJM Australia CEO Steve Baird stated that the organisation confirmed the decision of the eSafety Commissioner and underlined IJM’s concerns about the proposed DIS code’s lack of procedures to remove and disclose child sexual abuse content. RES, on the other hand, exempts encrypted services from the duty to proactively reveal such documents, although there exist technological solutions that may do so without jeopardising privacy.

The Online Safety Act now allows eSafety to levy fines of up to $700,000 per day for continuous violators of the regulations. IJM Australia strongly approved the e-Safety Commissioner’s decision to adopt the remaining enforceable codes. According to Baird, the primary priority and commitment remain to protect children and tackle internet safety concerns.