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Age verification for online content has finally gained traction in Australian politics, but it’s been a long time coming. Blocking minors from accessing online porn seems like an obvious move, but the journey to implementation has been anything but smooth. After much delay, a pilot program for age verification technology is set to receive a $6.5 million boost in the upcoming federal budget.
This initiative echoes a previous proposal put forth by David Coleman, the Coalition’s communications spokesman. Although the funding details differ slightly, both plans originate from recommendations made by the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant. She has advocated for age verification technology as a means to protect minors from explicit online content.
The proposed method involves a “double-blind tokenised approach,” wherein digital tokens, issued by a trusted third-party provider, serve as proof of age without disclosing personal information to porn sites. Despite technological advancements, significant hurdles remain, including the absence of a regulatory framework and concerns about user privacy.
While other countries like the UK, France, and Germany have implemented similar laws, their effectiveness remains uncertain. Reports suggest that many users are circumventing age verification measures using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), highlighting the challenges of enforcement and compliance.
Furthermore, age verification laws would impact millions of legal adult users in Australia, raising questions about data privacy and user consent. As discussions continue, it’s essential to consider the complexities and implications of implementing such measures in the digital age.
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