Internet Watchdog Plays Down Fears Over Censorship

The eSafety commissioner stated that social media companies are unlikely to engage in widespread censorship, despite concerns raised by religious leaders regarding a proposed digital duty of care bill. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant described fears of stifled discourse as a “stretch,” asserting that companies currently aim to display a maximum amount of material. The watchdog clarified that over-blocking and over-compliance are not desired outcomes of the proposed legislation.

• The federal online watchdog, eSafety commissioner, addressed fears of censorship related to Labor’s proposed digital duty of care.
• Religious leaders argued the bill is too vague and could stifle discourse on contentious issues.
• Commissioner Julie Inman Grant dismissed these fears, calling them a “stretch.”
• She stated that companies currently try to show the maximum amount of material, regardless of its nature.
• eSafety clarified that over-blocking and over-compliance are not the desired results of the digital duty of care.