The Australian government has demanded a new code be implemented by dating app companies in response to a study by the Australian Institute of Criminology, which found that three in four people using dating apps had experienced some form of sexual violence. Both Match and Bumble, who own multiple dating apps operating in Australia, will now shut the dating accounts of users across apps if safety policies are violated. The new code also requires dating apps to publish regular reports on Australian accounts terminated and implement a compliance rating system to guide users on each service’s commitments. Additionally, a new body consisting of three members – a lawyer, a person with social media experience, and an expert in online safety, gender-based violence, or public policy – will oversee the code’s implementation. Dating app companies will also develop a plan to share information about users who may pose an increased risk of safety policy violations. The code is set to commence in October, giving companies three months to adjust their practices.
According to a statement by Rowland, online dating has become the most common way for Australians to meet a partner, making it imperative for regulations to catch up with technology advancements. The code will hold dating app companies accountable for improving the safety of their services, cracking down on abuse, and removing dangerous users. The move comes in response to concerns raised by experts regarding dating apps potentially contributing to misogyny and gender-based violence. One app, Plenty of Fish, even introduced a “no dick pics” badge in response to the issue. Rishworth emphasized that abuse on dating apps is a form of gender-based violence that must be addressed to create safe and respectful communities, both online and offline. The new code is expected to enhance safety on dating apps and help Australians make informed choices about the platforms they use.
Match and Bumble have expressed their support for the new code, stating that the industry has worked collaboratively to prepare for its implementation. The companies emphasized their commitment to removing perpetrators of violence, harassment, and abuse from their platforms, with a Bumble spokeswoman affirming that such behavior is unacceptable. The introduction of the code reflects a concerted effort by the dating app industry to address safety concerns and ensure a safer online dating environment for users. The code is designed to establish clear guidelines for enforcing safety policies, sharing information on potential risks, and improving accountability within the sector. It represents a significant step towards enhancing the safety and security of individuals using dating apps in Australia.
In conclusion, the new code for dating app companies in Australia is a response to the prevalence of sexual violence on these platforms, as revealed by a study conducted by the Australian Institute of Criminology. The code seeks to hold dating app companies accountable for ensuring the safety of their users, cracking down on abusive behavior, and removing dangerous individuals from their platforms. The implementation of the code will involve shutting dating accounts across apps when safety policies are violated, publishing reports on terminated accounts, and establishing a compliance rating system to guide users on each service’s commitments. The creation of a new oversight body comprising legal, social media, and online safety experts underscores the government’s commitment to improving safety on dating apps and addressing concerns about misogyny and gender-based violence. Match and Bumble have expressed their support for the new code, emphasizing their commitment to removing perpetrators of abuse from their platforms and creating a safer online dating environment for users. The implementation of the code marks a significant step towards enhancing safety and accountability within the dating app industry in Australia.