Albanese government targets AI chatbots that hook kids into dependence
The Albanese government accepted amendments to ban certain AI chatbots. These chatbots simulate emotional intimacy. They encourage children to replace human relationships.
The Albanese government backed amendments to its digital duty of care bill. The changes target chatbots that simulate emotional intimacy.
These chatbots encourage children to depend on them instead of real relationships. The bill passed the lower house on Wednesday.
It now needs Senate approval. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned parliament.
People describing chatbots as their best friends should wake parliament up, he said. Tech companies that breach the duty could face penalties up to $109.2 million.
The government also accepted amendments. These require platforms to make feed controls accessible and easy to use.
Labor still needs cross-bench support to pass the bill through the Senate. The Greens and some independents want stronger penalties.
They also want a complaints process overseen by the telecommunications ombudsman.
- $109.2 million
- Maximum penalty for breaches
- Kate Chaney, independent MP
- Amendment sponsor
- Under-18s
- Age group protected
- Passed lower house Wednesday
- Bill status
Why it mattersThe law sets new safety rules for tech platforms and chatbots. It affects how Australian companies design AI. It also protects children online.
AustraliaAustralian children will have new protections against manipulative chatbot design, and Australian tech companies must build safety systems into AI services or face major fines.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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