The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) was today announced as one of four government agencies who have formed a new body to promote greater cooperation and information-sharing in the regulation of digital platforms in Australia.
The Digital Platform Regulators Forum (DP-REG) will consist of representatives from the ACMA, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the Office of the eSafety Commissioner (eSafety) and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC).
Each of the agencies work across initiatives relating to digital platforms and face common issues such as emerging online consumer harms and encouraging innovation while balancing protections.
The ACMA oversees the landmark Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation, which the largest digital platforms in Australia have signed up to.
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin welcomed the formation of the group as another step in ensuring Australia is at the forefront in the regulation of the digital environment.
“Digital platforms play an increasingly important role in the lives of Australians for information, entertainment and social contact with family and friends,” said Ms O’Loughlin.
“This forum will assist regulators to work more closely together to ensure these platforms meet the standards expected of them by the Australian community.”
The DP-REG members will share information and resources, enhance regulatory capabilities across the group, and collaborate on projects of joint interest. This includes consideration of how competition, consumer protection, privacy, online safety and data issues intersect through the respective regulatory frameworks.
The forum will also meet regularly to share recent developments and discuss emerging issues and DP-REG member activities.
DP-REG has released a joint statement and developed a Terms of Reference that further outlines the purpose and goals of the group.
