Australians hoping to find love through dating apps will be protected under a code of conduct designed to make the platforms safer for users.
The code will require apps, like Tinder and Hinge, to implement systems to detect potential incidents of “online-enabled” harm and take action against users who violate online safety policies.
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Other measures under the code will require apps to communicate with law enforcement, particularly if a user has made a complaint about their imminent safety, and provide regular reports to the eSafety commissioner.
Apps will also be rated against a new system, allowing users to determine how they adhere to the safety obligations.
The code comes into effect from October 1, and apps will have six months to become compliant.
“Online dating is now the most common way to meet a partner in Australia. However, the level of violence and abuse experienced by users of these platforms is deeply concerning,” communications minister Michelle Rowland said.
“Now that the code is operational, the government will be watching [the] industry closely to ensure they take the steps needed to keep their users safe.”
Three in four people have fallen victim to sexual violence facilitated by dating apps, according to a 2022 Australian Institute of Criminology study.
The code remains voluntary, but a review will be conducted in 2026 to determine whether it should become mandatory.