Australia has no tolerance for big tech failing to prevent, detect and remove pro-terror material from their services.
The Albanese Government welcomes the decision by the eSafety Commissioner to seek a penalty of up to $54.6 million against Telegram under the Online Safety Act’s Relevant Electronic Services Unlawful Material Standard.
Following a year-long investigation, eSafety alleges that Telegram has failed to detect, disrupt and deter pro-terror material and accounts, including after reports by Australian users were made.
This is the first enforcement action in the Federal Court taken by the eSafety Commissioner under the Albanese Government’s Unlawful Material Codes and Standards, which came into effect a year ago.
Telegram needs to explain to Australian users – and the Federal Court – why it has allegedly not complied with Australian laws.
As this matter is now before the Federal Court, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.
