Environment and Communications References Committee

Sarah Hanson-Young

At the request of Senator Shoebridge, I move:

That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 31 October 2025:

The implementation of regulations aimed at protecting children and young people online, with particular reference to the Internet Search Engine Services Online Safety Code and the under 16 social media ban, including:

(a) privacy and data protection implications of age verification;

(b) the expansion of corporate data collection and user profiling capabilities enabled by code compliance requirements;

(c) the technical implementation and efficacy of age verification and content filtering mechanisms;

(d) alternative technical approaches to online safety for all users, including young people;

(e) appropriate oversight mechanisms for online safety codes;

(f) global experience and best practice; and

(g) any other related matters.

Malcolm Roberts

by leave—I move:

That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 31 October 2025:

The implementation of regulations aimed at protecting children and young people online, with particular reference to the Internet Search Engine Services Online Safety Code and the under 16 social media ban, including:

(a) privacy and data protection implications of age verification;

(b) the expansion of corporate data collection and user profiling capabilities enabled by code compliance requirements;

(c) the technical implementation and efficacy of age verification and content filtering mechanisms;

(d) alternative technical approaches to online safety for all users, including young people;

(e) appropriate oversight mechanisms for online safety codes;

(f) global experience and best practice;

(g) the rights and responsibilities of parents to decide what is best for their children; and

(h) any other matters.

Pauline Hanson

You didn't hear my voice?

Sue Lines

I didn't hear your voice, Senator Hanson.

Senator Hanson, if you want to seek my attention, you do need to stand, not just call out from another place.

Pauline Hanson

I would like to have that motion put forward again, please.

The

The question is that the amendment as moved by Senator Roberts be agreed to.

A division having been called and the bells being rung—

Paul Scarr

Can we start again, with your indulgence, President?

Sue Lines

The opposition has asked for the matter to be recommitted. I intend to do that.

Paul Scarr

So we have the benefit of four minutes.

Sue Lines

The question is that the amendment as moved by Senator Roberts to business of the Senate notice of motion No. 2 be agreed to.