Australia Introduces Groundbreaking Online Dating Safety Code

 

In a major step to enhance user safety, Australia has implemented a new code of conduct for the online dating industry. This move follows alarming research revealing that 75% of users have experienced some form of sexual violence through dating platforms. The new code aims to curb such incidents, marking a significant shift in online dating regulations.

Bumble, Grindr, and Match Group Inc.—the company behind Tinder, Hinge, OKCupid, and Plenty of Fish—have agreed to the code. These platforms dominate 75% of the online dating market in Australia. Starting immediately, they are expected to implement the necessary changes by April 1, 2024, before enforcement begins.

The code mandates that platforms proactively identify potential harmful behavior and introduces a system to ban repeat offenders across all participating apps. Additionally, complaint and reporting mechanisms will become more visible and user-friendly, while a rating system will track how well platforms adhere to these new safety protocols.

Australia's government pushed for the code following a study by the Australian Institute of Criminology, which found that three-quarters of users had encountered some form of sexual violence on dating platforms between 2016 and 2021. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the importance of this action, stating, “A complaint-handling process is a basic feature Australians should have expected from the start.”

Bumble, one of the major platforms involved, expressed its commitment to eliminating gender-based violence. “We know that domestic and sexual violence is an enormous problem in Australia, especially affecting women, LGBTQ+ communities, and First Nations people,” Bumble said in a statement.

While most major platforms have signed up, others like Happn and Coffee Meets Bagel have not yet joined. The Australian government has made it clear that if the industry fails to meet safety expectations, it is prepared to take legislative action.

This groundbreaking code aims to ensure Australians can choose platforms that prioritize their safety. For more updates on this and other global news, follow me on Twitter/X @dark_web24.