The Australian eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, has pushed back against claims from U.S. Republican Congressman Jim Jordan, who labeled her a “zealot for global takedowns.” Inman Grant’s testimony comes at a time when the Australian Parliament is investigating a report published by News, which raised concerns over safety on the gaming platform, Roblox.

Last month, Congressman Jordan requested Inman Grant to testify before the House Judiciary Committee regarding the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM). This organization was accused of collaborating with advertisers and government regulators to influence content moderation policies on platforms like Twitter, yielding serious implications for freedom of expression.

Congressional Concerns over Online Speech

The Judiciary Committee’s June report alleged that GARM engaged in discussions that led to censorship demands on Twitter. The committee’s focus on Inman Grant intensified when emails surfaced, indicating that she had hinted GARM was “helping to hold the platforms to account.” Inman Grant was questioned on how Australia’s Online Safety Act interferes with American free speech.

Inman Grant received a letter from Congressman Jordan last month, urging her to discuss the implications of Australia’s Online Safety Act. He expressed concern that her expansive interpretation of this legislation could potentially threaten free speech in the U.S., referencing a recent court case involving a violent incident in a church.

Jordan stated, “As a primary enforcer of Australia’s Online Safety Act and noted zealot for global takedowns, you are uniquely positioned to provide information about the law’s free speech implications—both in the U.S. and abroad.” This inquiry is part of a larger effort to ensure that foreign governments do not impede the rights of American citizens.

Inman Grant Addresses Online Safety

Responding to inquiries, Inman Grant emphasized her commitment to child online safety, indicating that she planned to send a letter to Congressman Jordan addressing his concerns. “What I am zealous about is protecting children online,” she stated, underscoring the importance of ensuring compliance with Australian laws for companies operating in Australia.

Inman Grant clarified that the Online Safety Act does not infringe upon the free speech rights of Americans. She added that recent measures included geoblocking features aimed at preventing Australian users from accessing specific content, thereby aligning with Australian law.

“So no, it does not impinge upon Americans’ freedom of speech,” she affirmed, while noting that she would not disclose the contents of her letter until Congressman Jordan had reviewed it.

Roblox Investigated for Safety Concerns

During the session, Senator David Pocock questioned Inman Grant regarding a News investigation into Roblox, focusing on potential bullying and violence children may encounter on the platform. As a gaming platform exempted from a new social media ban for users under the age of 16, the classification of Roblox has raised questions about its safety practices.

Inman Grant elaborated on the steps Roblox has taken to implement age assurance measures to mitigate risks for users. She indicated that as digital platforms evolve, it’s crucial for eSafety to continuously assess the impacts of their services on children’s safety.

“We look at a range of factors in terms of determining what we consider to be the relative risk,” she explained. “We’re using our transparency powers, and we’re also taking complaints from the public through our complaint systems every day.”