Australian Government Calls for Improved Safety in Online Dating
Australia’s government is taking action to enhance safety in the online dating industry. Responding to research indicating that three out of four Australian users have experienced some form of sexual violence on dating platforms, Communications Minister Michelle Rowland announced measures to address these concerns.
Safety Code Deadline for Dating Companies
Popular dating companies like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have been given until June 30 to create a voluntary code of conduct that addresses user safety. This code may involve measures like better collaboration with law enforcement, support for at-risk users, improved safety policies, and greater transparency regarding potential risks.
Government’s Stance on Regulation
If the safety standards do not see significant improvements, the government is prepared to use regulation and legislation to enforce change. Rowland emphasized the government’s aim is not to hinder innovation but to strike a balance by addressing potential harms.
Concerns Based on Research Findings
This action follows research from the Australian Institute of Criminology, which revealed that in the five years leading up to 2021, three in four users of dating apps or websites had experienced some form of sexual violence through these platforms.
Online Dating’s Popularity and Government’s Concerns
Online dating is the most popular way for Australians to meet new people and form relationships. However, the government is concerned about high rates of sexual harassment, abusive language, unsolicited explicit content, and violence facilitated by these platforms.
Industry and Experts Respond
The Australian Information Industry Association, representing the tech industry in Australia, supported the government’s approach, considering it a measured response. They emphasize collaborative industry efforts to resolve issues before resorting to regulation.
Bumble declined to comment, while Tinder and Hinge have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Focus on User Experience and Reporting
Kath Albury, an online dating researcher at Melbourne’s Swinburne University of Technology, suggested potential safety improvements could include providing users with a clearer expectation of response times when reporting unwanted or threatening contacts. Many users have expressed concerns about a lack of feedback or automated responses during distressing situations.
The Australian government’s efforts aim to create a safer online dating environment while preserving the popularity of these platforms among Australians.