Google Warns Australian Bill Could Block Minors From Gmail

Google warned an Australian Senate inquiry on November 9 that the proposed Digital Duty of Care bill could force the company to block users under 18 from Gmail, Google Drive, and other messaging services. Rachel Lord, Google's head of policy for Australia and New Zealand, testified that requirements for age verification to prevent children from accessing pornography could lead to intrusive monitoring of private communications and file storage.

Representatives from Meta, TikTok, and Snap supported these concerns, arguing that the bill's broad discretion might trigger over-moderation to avoid potential fines reaching A$109.2 million. Conversely, Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young argued that tech companies require tougher oversight because existing community guidelines are insufficient.

Communications Minister Anika Wells denied the government intends to cut children off from the internet, stating the law establishes basic safety standards. The bill has passed the House of Representatives and is currently under Senate review, with a committee report expected by November 20.