Government to appoint dating safety code watchdog

A supervisory body will be established to oversee a new dating app industry security code.

The independent Code Enforcement Committee will authorize three individuals to enforce the Code – one with experience in online safety, sexual or gender-based violence or public policy, one with experience in social technology platforms, and a lawyer.

Enforcement powers will include formal warnings, requiring a participant to develop a plan to comply with its obligations, or suspension or formal removal from the code.

All companies in the industry working group have agreed to:

Implementation of systems enabling detection of potential incidents related to damage caused via the Internet;
Take action against end users who violate online security policies, including terminating accounts on all services operated by the company;
Implementation of visible, clear and transparent complaint and reporting mechanisms;
Providing support resources for Australian users on safe dating practices and online harm;
Publish regular transparency reports detailing the number of accounts closed in Australia and our content moderation processes;
Improving cooperation with Australian law enforcement agencies, including proactive referral of complaints where there is an imminent threat to the safety of the complainant.

The dating sites have also agreed to a new compatibility rating system that will provide users with clear guidance on how each dating site is delivering on its commitments.

The code will go into effect within the next three months.

After nine months of the Code being in force, the eSafety Commissioner will provide the Government with a report on its effectiveness, including whether further action is needed.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the safety code would provide Australians with the best protection in the world.

“Online dating is now the most popular way to meet a partner in Australia. These services did not develop overnight and the lack of action over the past decade means that regulation has not kept up with technology,” she said.

“Constructive industry engagement means that the largest online dating sites operating in Australia have made clear and public commitments to improving the security of their services – including tackling abuse and removing unsafe users from the platform.

“The Government will be watching the industry closely over the coming months as the Code is implemented. We look forward to the e-Safety Commissioner’s assessment of its effectiveness as we consider any possible next steps.”

The code was created after the National Roundtable on Online Dating Safety last year. The working group included Match Group, Bumble, Grindr, Spark Networks, RSVP; and ParshipMeet Group.

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