Australian PM seeks big tech backing for internet safety, AI rules

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is seeking the backing of major technology companies to strengthen internet safety measures and AI regulation, following a recent meeting with Apple CEO Tim Cook in California. Albanese acknowledged that Australia cannot tackle online child safety issues alone, emphasizing that they are putting stronger rules in place to keep Australians safe online.

This comes after Australia implemented legislation barring under-16s from social media platforms last year, as part of a world-first crackdown to protect children from online bullying and predatory algorithms. The country's draft laws, unveiled recently, would impose a duty of care on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, and allow users to turn off algorithms if they choose.

Albanese, currently in the United States for the UN General Assembly, called for greater AI regulation following dire safety warnings from industry leaders. He stated that Australia will introduce new AI standards by the end of the year, addressing concerns about AI developing in a way where humans lose control over its output. Cook expressed admiration for Australia's pioneering curbs on social media, calling them "world-leading."

The AI industry remains divided over the pace of development and safety measures, as the debate intensifies in Silicon Valley.