A new voluntary safety code of conduct for dating apps has come into force in Australia, aiming to combat abuse and enhance user safety. The initiative was developed in response to troubling statistics indicating that three in four online daters have faced some form of abuse, with one in five experiencing threats.
The code, which applies to major platforms including Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, RSVP, Grindr, and Spark Networks, requires companies to take proactive steps to identify harmful behavior, remove offenders, and improve reporting mechanisms. Platforms that fail to comply risk penalties, including warnings, mandated action plans, or suspension from the code, which could affect their accreditation.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has expressed support for the industry-led initiative but warned that if it does not lead to measurable safety improvements, the government may impose stricter regulations. “If the government considers that it doesn’t stack up and it’s not resulting in improved safety, then of course we’ve got the option to actually regulate in this area rather than have the industry code,” Rowland stated.
The eSafety commissioner will release a report on July 1, assessing the effectiveness of the measures. Key indicators will include account suspensions, moderation efforts, and complaint resolution rates.
Several dating platforms have already implemented AI-powered moderation tools, photo and ID verification, and enhanced reporting features. Discussions are also ongoing about age verification measures, with some experts suggesting that methods used to restrict minors from social media should be extended to dating apps. However, the government has not indicated plans to ban teenagers from using these platforms.
