Parliament wants to give YOU the remote back.
The Digital Duty of Care Bill, explained for families
On 15 October 2026, the Australian Government introduced a new online safety bill to Federal Parliament. It builds on the under-16 social media law by focusing on how platforms are designed, not only who can access them.
Not yet law. Currently before Parliament.
What the bill proposes
Safety by design
Online services, from social media to games and messaging apps, would have a legal duty to provide a safe online environment.
Protections for children
Platforms would need to protect children from bullying, harmful content and some harmful algorithm features.
More say over your feed
Users could choose whether to opt in to the algorithm and get tools to shape what is recommended.
Real accountability
Platforms that fail the duty could face penalties of up to $109.2 million.
What happens next
Bill introduced to the House of Representatives
Senate inquiry, with a report expected before the end of 2026
The duty begins 12 months after the law is made