Social media companies will now be required to explain the steps they are taking to keep Aussies safe on their platforms as a government inquiry is investigating their online safety measures.

On Wednesday, the Australian Government unveiled the probe to scrutinise companies such as Facebook and Twitter, examining the online harms faced on social media, its impact on mental health and the effectiveness of its safety measures.

While the government inquiry received bipartisan support, Labor communications spokeswoman Michelle Rowland said it had taken too long for the Australian Government to establish it.

“The announcements come early … but the action comes late,” she said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the inquiry would ensure that social media companies would be held accountable.

“Mums and dads are rightly concerned about whether big tech is doing enough to keep their kids safe,” he said.

“Big tech created these platforms, they have a responsibility to ensure they’re safe.”

The inquiry is expected to run for three months over the summer, with a final report due by February 15.

The committee is expected to invite prominent individuals such as Adam Goodes, Tayla Harris and Erin Molan for the inquiry. Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen will also be invited to give evidence, having just revealed information that the social media giant knew about the negative impact its platforms had on its teenage users and how it prioritised profits over safety.

Communications Minister Paul Fletcher said the recent revelations regarding social media amplified concerns about the platforms and social media use.

“This inquiry will be a very important opportunity to examine the practices of these companies, and whether more needs to be done,” he said.

“(It) will give organisations and individuals an opportunity to air their concerns, and for big tech to account for its own conduct.”

The inquiry comes as the Australian Government lays out the details on anti-trolling legislation, with an exposure draft set to be released.

The exposure draft will be released to allow social media companies, as well as state and territory governments, to have their say on the proposed laws.

With AAP

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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