Google is declining to disclose whether it has engaged in lobbying efforts with Donald Trump regarding Australia‘s proposed legislation to restrict access to YouTube for users under the age of 16. The company’s silence comes as Australian lawmakers consider measures aimed at bolstering online child safety, prompting concerns about potential political interference and the future of content access for young Australians.
The debate centers on a bill designed to force social media platforms, including YouTube, to verify the ages of their users and obtain parental consent for those under 16. While the Australian goverment asserts the legislation is crucial for protecting children from harmful content and online predators, critics argue it could lead to censorship and hinder access to educational resources. Google’s refusal to confirm or deny lobbying activity raises questions about the extent to which the tech giant is attempting to influence the outcome of this legislation, and whether former President Trump was contacted. The outcome of this debate will considerably impact how Australian children access online video content and set a precedent for similar regulations globally.
