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Search engine operators will now face increased scrutiny from the eSafety Commissioner as the sixth Online Safety industry code against access to unlawful and harmful material comes into effect. The industry-led online safety code covering search engines commenced on Tuesday as the last of six industry codes outlining appropriate steps that different technology providers should undertake to detect and prevent access to child sexual abuse and pro-terrorism material (class 1a and 1b material). eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant may seek civil penalties or injunctions from the Federal Court against companies that fail to comply with the codes. She also has the power to replace the codes with mandatory industry standards should they prove to be inadequate.

Summary

The latest online safety code targeting search engine operators is now in effect, mandating these companies to ramp up efforts against illicit content like child abuse and terrorism promotion. Enforced by eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, the code could lead to civil penalties or mandatory standards for non-compliance. This regulatory move is a part of a broader initiative comprising six industry codes aimed at enhancing online safety by holding tech providers accountable for harmful content management. While the code strengthens Australia's digital safety regulations, its focus is primarily on unlawful material, not directly on catastrophic AI risks.

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