Australia is currently undergoing community consultation on new safety codes designed to protect children from online pornography and harmful content.

These draft codes will incorporate age assurance measures specifically for digital platforms.

A key requirement of the proposed codes is that adult content sites must verify users' ages to remain accessible in search results and on social media.

If accepted by the eSafety Commissioner, these codes will apply across various sectors, including social media, messaging, search engines, and internet service providers.

Once finalized, the codes will significantly enhance protections against online pornography and harmful content for children.

The primary goal of the draft codes is to protect children, empower parents with content control, and ensure privacy and online safety.

The Australian government is also trialing age verification technologies for social media users under 16, which may influence the implementation for adult sites.

Verification methods proposed may include photo ID checks, facial age estimation, credit card checks, and parental attestation, while self-affirmation of age will not be accepted.

The eSafety Commissioner, recognized as a robust regulator, will enforce compliance with the code, providing strong incentives for adult sites to adhere.

Given the internet's vital role in children's education, leisure, and social interactions, these safety measures are deemed essential.

Stakeholders, including consumer organizations and civil society groups, are encouraged to provide feedback on the draft codes, with public consultation open until November 22.

Following the consultation period, a review deadline is set for December 19, 2024, after which the codes could become enforceable.