AI Extinction Warnings Fuel Push for New Federal Controls
A former Anthropic researcher said the labs are racing past control. They now want inspectors; the White House calls the danger a hoax.
Legislation
Legislation news and policy developments. Coverage of new laws, parliamentary bills, and regulatory changes worldwide from The Oceania Cables
Australia Drafts Online Duty of Care; Critics Warn of Censorship
Australia's online safety law would fine platforms $109.2m and let a minister decide what's "harmful" online, critics call it stealth censorship.
Australian Senate Passes Expanded ASIO Questioning Bill
The Senate passed the ASIO questioning bill 26–15, restoring a three-year sunset and expanding warrants to sabotage and communal violence.
Australia Senate Blocks Bill on Biological Sex Definitions
One Nation Senator Pauline Hanson’s bid to amend the Sex Discrimination Act, by prioritising biological sex, was blocked in the Senate.
Queensland Parliament Passes LNP’s Tougher Youth Crime Bill Amid Labor Opposition
Summary On April 23, 2026, the Queensland Parliament passed the Liberal National Party’s (LNP) Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Anti-Social Behaviour Amendment Bill 2026 (Bill No. 4277 of 2026). The legislation, supported by the LNP and Katter’s Australian Party,
ASIO Amendment Bill No. 2 Nears Final Passage as Australia Weighs Security Powers Against Civil Liberties
Summary The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2025 is nearing final passage in Parliament, with the House of Representatives approving the legislation in February 2026 and the Senate now preparing for an imminent vote. The bill seeks to make ASIO’s compulsory questioning powers permanent, removing the