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In a landmark move, Australia and the United Kingdom have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster cooperation in advancing online safety and security. This unprecedented agreement marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more positive digital environment for users worldwide.
The MoU, the first of its kind, addresses a wide array of critical issues related to digital safety and security, including combating illegal content, ensuring child safety, age verification measures, addressing gender-based violence facilitated by technology, and mitigating harms stemming from rapidly evolving technologies like generative artificial intelligence.
Australian Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP states: “Both Australia and the United Kingdom are resolute in our commitment to keeping our citizens safe online. We are likeminded allies and key partners in the fight for safer and more positive online experiences.
“This historic Memorandum of Understanding will bring our two countries closer together, ensuring greater collaboration and engagement as we deal with online harms. Working together, we will protect the privacy, safety and security of our citizens, without stifling the innovation that is vital for economic, social and individual progress.”
“Online safety is a shared, global responsibility. We must be proactive in ensuring that our legislative frameworks remain fit-for-purpose, and continue to evolve as new harms emerge,” said Australian Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland.
By leveraging their world-class regulatory frameworks, such as the UK’s Online Safety Act 2023 and Australia’s Online Safety Act 2021, both countries aim to establish themselves as global leaders in online safety. The MoU solidifies their joint commitment to upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in both the online and offline spheres.
The agreement outlines a comprehensive approach to collaboration, with a focus on enhancing cooperation across various key areas, including regulatory engagement, joint research initiatives, and industry partnerships aimed at addressing safety challenges stemming from design choices. Through in-person dialogues, coordinated bilateral and multilateral efforts, the partnership seeks to drive meaningful progress in tackling online harms.
Led by the UK Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) and the Australian Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts (DITRDCA), in close collaboration with relevant departments and agencies, this collaboration sets a precedent for global cooperation in safeguarding the digital realm.
Meanwhile, United Kingdom Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Michelle Donelan said she was proud of the fact that the UK and Australia were at the forefront of online safety.
“I am proud of our internationally pioneering approaches which are already helping to create a safer and more secure digital world, protecting our citizens and holding platforms to account. The signing of the joint Memorandum today signifies a new chapter in our shared history. I look forward to building on this partnership which will help address the challenges and harness the opportunities of the digital age,” Donelan said.
