Religious groups tell Senate: safety law will censor our teachings
Religious leaders warn Labor's online safety bill could force tech platforms to censor teachings on gender and sexuality.
The Sydney Anglican Diocese, Catholic Bishops Conference and Jewish Association are telling Senate hearings this week that a looming online safety law could force social media platforms to censor their religious teachings.
The digital duty of care bill would require platforms to protect children from harmful content, including misogynistic posts and material causing distress. Religious leaders fear platforms, facing fines up to $109.2 million for non-compliance, will over-censor to stay safe.
Bishop Michael Stead warned that Biblical teachings on male headship in marriage and church ordination practices could be wrongly classified as gender-based violence. Some have called for a religious carve-out from the law, similar to existing exemptions for news and education content.
Labor has rejected censorship concerns, but the Coalition has already turned against the bill on the same grounds.
- $109.2 million
- Maximum fine per violation
- Michael Stead
- Bishop raising concern
Why it mattersIf platforms over-censor to avoid massive fines, Australians could lose access to legitimate religious speech and debate on contested moral questions.
AustraliaReligious organisations across Australia worry the law will make it harder to share or discuss their doctrines online, affecting how churches, synagogues and faith groups communicate with members.
