The Australian government has announced plans to introduce legislation targeting deepfake nudes and online stalking tools, placing responsibility on tech giants to prevent access to such technologies. This move aims to combat the rising threat of AI-powered abuse, particularly against children. Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized that there is no place for apps and technologies used solely to abuse, humiliate, and harm people, especially children.
The proposed legislation focuses on “nudify” apps, AI tools that digitally strip off clothing or generate sexualized imagery, which have exploded online and sparked warnings about sextortion scams targeting children. A recent Save the Children survey found that one in five young people in Spain have been victims of deepfake nudes, with those images shared online without their consent. This alarming statistic underscores the global nature of the problem and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
Australia has been at the forefront of global efforts to curb internet harm, especially that targeted at children. The country passed landmark laws in November restricting under-16s from social media, one of the world’s toughest crackdowns on popular sites like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X. Social media giants face fines of up to AUS$49.5 million (US$32 million) if they fail to comply with the teen ban. However, these laws have been described as “vague,” “problematic,” and “rushed” by tech giants.
The government will work with industry stakeholders to develop new laws against AI-driven “nudification” and online stalking, ensuring that legitimate and consent-based artificial intelligence and online tracking services are not inadvertently impacted. An independent study ordered by the government found that age checking can be done “privately, efficiently, and effectively,” but “no single solution fits all contexts.” The law restricting under-16s from social media comes into force by the end of this year.
