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Australia’s eSafety Chief Defends Child Protection Efforts Amid US Criticism

Source: Australia’s eSafety commissioner rejects US Republican’s assertion she is a ‘zealot for global takedowns’ (2025-12-03)

Australia’s eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, has publicly dismissed claims from a US Republican that she is a “zealot for global takedowns,” reaffirming her commitment to online safety, especially for children. Grant emphasizes that her primary focus is safeguarding young users from harmful content and misinformation, aligning with Australia’s robust digital safety policies. Despite political criticisms, she highlights recent initiatives such as the introduction of stricter online content moderation laws, increased funding for digital literacy programs, and international collaborations to combat cyberbullying and exploitation. Notably, Australia has recently expanded its online safety laws to include new provisions for social media platforms, requiring them to remove harmful content within 24 hours, and launched a national awareness campaign targeting digital literacy among youth. Furthermore, Australia is leading global efforts to develop AI-driven tools for detecting harmful online behavior, and has committed over $50 million in the past year to support research and innovation in internet safety. The country also actively participates in international forums like the Global Internet Governance Forum, advocating for stronger protections for children worldwide. Grant’s stance underscores a broader commitment to creating a safer digital environment, emphasizing that her work is rooted in protecting vulnerable populations rather than ideological pursuits. As online threats evolve, Australia continues to pioneer comprehensive policies that balance free expression with safety, setting a global standard for digital responsibility. Her leadership is recognized internationally, with experts praising Australia’s proactive approach to internet safety and its emphasis on evidence-based policies that prioritize child protection while fostering innovation in digital safety technologies.

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