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Enhancing Online Safety for Children – Regulation Impact Statement – Department of Communications

On 3 December 2014, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Communications introduced legislation containing a range of proposals to combat cyber-bullying and provide a safer online environment for children. The proposals included the establishment of the Children's e‑Safety Commissioner and setting out the Commissioner's functions and powers, and are supported by a range of non regulatory actions including an education and awareness raising campaign. The proposals were informed by public and industry consultation conducted throughout 2014. The proposals have been assessed as likely to have a measurable but contained impact on the economy.  A Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) was prepared and certified by the Department of Communications and has been assessed as compliant by the Office of Best Practice Regulation (OBPR). The OBPR notes that the process followed by the Department of Communications and the level of analysis contained in the RIS were consistent with best practice. The RIS estimates the average annual regulatory cost at $0.43 million per annum, and identifies offsets. The OBPR has agreed to the regulatory cost and offset estimates.