Global internet regulation upgrade: Australia takes the lead, Ireland follows closely behind

Content regulation on online platforms is triggering a new wave worldwide. Recently, Australian regulators announced an important initiative requiring mainstream search engines like Google to verify users’ actual ages and filter content based on age groups. This regulatory measure officially took effect on December 27, with relevant companies granted a six-month adjustment and adaptation period.

Across the ocean, Europe is also developing a similar regulatory framework. The Irish government has explicitly stated that, taking advantage of Ireland holding the EU Council Presidency in July 2026, it plans to promote the implementation of age verification systems on social media platforms across the entire European Union. In addition to age verification, Ireland proposes banning anonymous account registration, aiming to directly target the spread of online hate speech and false information.

This wave of regulation reflects increasing attention from governments worldwide toward maintaining order in cyberspace. Whether it’s content filtering at the search engine level or identity verification on social media, all point to the same goal: establishing a more transparent and secure online environment.