In a move to prioritize the safety of Australians in the online realm, the federal government has announced a $132.1 million increase in funding for the eSafety Commissioner.
The eSafety Commissioner, which previously faced a funding crisis due to decisions made by the former federal government, will see its annual base funding rise from $10.3 million to $42.5 million.
This significant increase will enable the Commissioner to promptly assist Australians facing online abuse and keep up with the growing demand for its takedown initiatives, ensuring a swift and effective response to online threats.
Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland states that digital government is determined to improve online safety for all Australians.
“The reality is that shocking decisions made by the former Liberal-National Government mean that our world-leading online safety regulator was facing a funding cliff, putting its important work at-risk,” she said.
“Unlike the Coalition, the Albanese Government is giving the eSafety Commissioner the resources and certainty they need to do their important work by quadrupling ongoing funding.”
The enhanced investment in the eSafety Commissioner aims to enhance online safety for Australians by holding the online industry accountable through stronger enforcement of industry codes and online safety expectations. This ensures that online platforms prioritize user safety and take measures to prevent harm.
The allocated funding also focuses on combating child sexual exploitation by improving coordination with law enforcement agencies to swiftly remove and combat such material from the internet. This effort aims to protect the most vulnerable members of society and ensure their safety in the digital space.
Furthermore, the eSafety Commissioner will conduct essential research into online harms and evaluate their existing resources, enabling them to stay updated on emerging threats and adapt their strategies accordingly.
In addition to these objectives, the eSafety Commissioner will expand its educational and awareness programs, educating communities about safe online practices and highlighting the support available.
This outreach effort will involve collaboration with regional and First Nations community leaders, law enforcement agencies, migrant resource centers, and schools, with the aim of reaching a wider audience and promoting online safety across different communities.
The investment reaffirms the federal government’s commitment to a responsive and proactive online safety regulator that serves all Australians and aligns with other government efforts in online safety.
“This record funding means eSafety can keep up with growing demands for their services and take strong action to have abusive and illegal material removed from the internet,” Minister Rowland states.
“We are funding eSafety through the 2023-24 Federal Budget so they can continue their critical work to build a safer online world for all Australians.”