Asianfin -- Australia's government plans to introduce laws mandating that major tech companies protect its citizens online, marking the latest initiative from the center-left Labor administration to regulate social media, including age restrictions and measures to combat misinformation. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland announced the plan on Wednesday for a Digital Duty of Care legislation, aligning Australia’s efforts with similar regulations in the UK and EU. “It’s time for the industry to show leadership and for social media to embrace its social responsibilities,” Rowland stated in Sydney, emphasizing that the legislation would enhance user safety and prevent online harms. In recent years, Australia has increased scrutiny of social media and big tech firms to curb the spread of misinformation and harmful content, particularly among younger users. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese introduced a policy banning social media access for children under 16, placing responsibility on tech companies to enforce this limit. The new laws are expected to be introduced within weeks and to take effect one year after parliamentary approval.