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Users will still be able to use search engines without registering, but the searches will then have a default high-level safety setting.
PHOTO: REUTERS
- Australia will require search engines such as Google to check the ages of users and restrict content for those under 18
- New rules require search engines to filter out violent and pornographic content and prevent young users from accessing self-harm material
- Non-compliance with these rules could lead to fines of up to A$49.5 million, as the government aims to protect children online.
Published Aug 01, 2025, 04:45 PM
Updated Aug 01, 2025, 05:05 PM
SYDNEY – In a surprise move, Australia will require search engines such as Google and Bing to check the ages of users and restrict content for those under 18 as part of world-first measures aimed at protecting young people from inappropriate and harmful content.
These requirements come as the Government plans to introduce on Dec 10 a ban on children under 16 having social media accounts.
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