Google warns that Australia’s proposed online safety law could require it to block under-18s from using Gmail. The concern is raised in connection with a “Digital Duty of Care” style requirement, which would push platforms to take steps to remove harmful content, according to reporting referenced by multiple outlets.

Several sources describe how a rule aimed at limiting harmful materials—such as sexual content involving minors—could inadvertently affect access to a mainstream communications service like Gmail. Coverage notes that Google raises the risk at a Senate hearing, while other outlets also highlight debate around how regulators would decide what qualifies as harmful.

While outlets largely agree on the core claim that the bill could lead to youth restrictions on Gmail, they differ in emphasis. Some foreground Google’s warning and the hearing setting; others foreground concerns from free-speech advocates and how the law’s discretion could affect platforms’ decisions and content enforcement.