Former Public Service Commissioner, Lynelle Briggs (pictured) has been appointed to conduct two reviews into the safety of Australia’s online services.
Ms Briggs will conduct a review of the Enhancing Online Safety Act 2015 which sets out the powers, functions and governance arrangements for the Office of the eSafety Commissioner and at the same time review Schedules Five and Seven of the Broadcasting Services Act 1992 which regulates the internet and content services industries in relation to prohibited content.
The first review will examine whether the provisions in the Act remain fit-for-purpose and the second will look at the type of content covered and best practice approaches for regulating online content.
Minister for Communications, Senator Mitch Fifield, said it was timely to review the legislation as more and more people used online services every day.
“The reviews will ensure we continue to have the right controls and support systems in place to protect Australians against harmful online content and ensure people can confidently participate in the online environment,” Senator Fifield said.
“We are focused on ensuring we have the right measures in place to address illegal or offensive content, and that the Office of the eSafety Commissioner has the appropriate powers to help Australians if and when they need it.”
Ms Briggs is expected to report to Government in the second half of this year.
