Regulator function
The eSafety Commissioner is an independent statutory office holder. The Commissioner's powers have been expanded under the new Online Safety Act, which came into effect on 23 January 2022. These include:
- requiring the removal of adult cyber abuse material
- requiring the removal of child cyberbullying material from the full range of online services, not just social media
- stronger information gathering powers, including basic subscriber information for anonymous accounts
- being able to rapidly address non-consensual sharing of intimate images
- being able to take action against seriously harmful online content such as child abuse and pro-terror content
- a regime for new industry codes and standards
- a technology industry framework for basic online safety expectations for technology products and services
Legislation
Online Safety Act 2021
Regulated community
The online industry: including, but not limited to social media services, designated internet services and relevant electronic services.
Portfolio
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
Internal to department / external entity
External
Ministerial Statement of Expectations
Ministerial Statement of Expectations date
6 December 2022
Regulator Statement of Intent
Regulator Statement of Intent date
13 February 2023