Urgent action is needed.

Drawing on international best practice, we recommend:

• A National Strategy for Online Child Safety
  A whole-of-government plan to prevent harm, coordinate action, and promote child rights online.

• An Online Children’s Safety Act
  The Act would establish a clear legal framework for online child protection, setting mandatory safety standards for digital platforms, internet service providers, and device manufacturers, while ensuring accountability in the digital space (WeProtect Global Alliance, 2024). Targeted regulation to protect children and tackle illegal content is needed— without undermining free speech. Free speech groups have indicated support for focused protections on child safety, provided overreach is avoided.

• A Safer Internet Agency and Online Children’s Commissioner
  An independent agency empowered to lead, set standards, and drive action — with strong accountability mechanisms.

  Giving the agency authority to investigate, enforce safety standards, require transparency from tech platforms, and handle complaints.

• A Future-Focused Vision
  Legislation and policy need to be agile moving beyond reactive measures towards a long-term roadmap for safer digital environments.

• Invest in research and education
  
  We must act now to protect the next generation - with bold leadership, strong regulation, and a clear child-first approach.