Google has warned that Australia’s proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation could force the company to restrict access to Gmail and other everyday online services for users under 18. Speaking at a Senate hearing on Monday, Rachel Lord, Google’s head of policy for Australia and New Zealand, said provisions requiring age verification where children could be exposed to pornography might lead to age checks and restrictions across messaging, email and private file storage services.
The legislation, which has passed the Australian House of Representatives and is awaiting Senate approval, requires internet companies to take measures to remove harmful online content or face penalties of up to A$109 million ($75.1 million). Representatives from Google, Meta, TikTok and Snap have raised concerns that the proposed rules give regulators excessive discretion in defining harmful content, potentially forcing platforms to adopt stricter moderation policies to avoid substantial fines. Google also cautioned that the requirements could involve intrusive monitoring of private communications and stored files.
Technology companies and free speech advocates have argued that the legislation could discourage online expression and restrict access to legitimate digital services. Several industry representatives warned that uncertainty surrounding the definition of harmful content could encourage excessive content removal. However, the Australian government maintains that broad regulatory measures are necessary to create a safer internet environment. The Senate hearing is continuing as debate over the legislation’s potential impact on digital privacy and online freedom intensifies.
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