VICTORIA PUSHES 'DEMASKING' POWERS FOR ABUSIVE ACCOUNTS

The new Victorian legislation would grant VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal) authority to compel tech companies to reveal the identities of anonymous accounts engaged in vilification. Allan announced the social media reform package Sunday as part of a broader child safety initiative. The proposal targets accounts used for harassment and abuse while operating under anonymity. Platforms affected would include major social networks and artificial intelligence services. Companies failing to comply with identification orders could face penalties. The move reflects growing pressure on tech companies to address online harassment. Victoria joins other jurisdictions considering similar accountability measures for anonymous accounts. Details on implementation timelines and specific penalty structures remain under development. The government plans further consultation on the legislation before formal introduction to parliament.