In California, the Australian Prime Minister met with Tim Cook to discuss online safety and artificial intelligence regulation, stressing that Australia cannot act alone to protect children online and seeking a collaborative, global approach.

Cook described Australia’s safeguards as world-leading and said Apple is working with the country on stronger, intuitive controls to help keep children safer online.

The meeting at Apple’s headquarters on September 19 highlighted a shared view that tech companies should play a proactive role in child protection and that big tech is stepping up.

The discussions come amid a broader international push to restrict minors’ access to social media, with several countries already pursuing or considering age-based restrictions and platform controls.

On IP and copyright, the PM argued for creators’ control and fair pay, signaling constructive policy engagement with industry and ongoing dialogue with major AI firms about shaping governance.

The talks align with a UN-led push for international AI regulation, contrasting with public debates in the U.S. about slowing development and with opposition to extra guardrails from some leaders.

Draft laws to be introduced to Parliament later this year follow consultations with tech companies, industry bodies, and civil society, aiming to be a world-first framework to limit online harm to children and address predatory algorithms.

The AI and online safety measures reflect ongoing consultations and are set to move forward through Parliament this year, incorporating input from social media firms and civil society groups.

Parliamentary introduction of the drafts is planned for late 2026 after broader stakeholder engagement.

Australia’s three-point framework on AI regulation calls for safety measures and IP protection by companies, national AI standards, and an international framework to maximize benefits while mitigating risks, with AI standards expected by year’s end.

When asked about Indigenous child protection in remote communities, the PM deferred to the appropriate minister and underscored federal-state responsibilities in child protection.

The government emphasizes empowering individuals through algorithm control and exposure to AI, referencing My Feed, My Way legislation and the need for global, multi-stakeholder governance of technology.