ABC News (Australia)

Google Challenges Australia’s Proposed Social Media Ban for Under-16s as “Extremely Difficult” to Implement

Google has raised significant doubts about Australia’s proposed legislation to ban social media for children under 16. YouTube executives describe the bill as “extremely difficult to enforce” and warn it could undermine existing parental safety controls. The tech giant’s stance sets up a potential clash with Australian lawmakers determined to protect children online.

In a significant development that could shape Australia’s digital landscape, Google has publicly challenged the feasibility of proposed legislation that would ban children under 16 from using social media platforms. The tech giant’s representatives have characterized the bill as “extremely difficult to enforce” during parliamentary hearings, creating tension between technological implementation and legislative intent.

Google’s Official Position on the Proposed Ban

by Elisa RomeroOctober 15, 2025

Business Energy

Vulcan Energy Signs Major Lithium Supply Deal with Glencore for European Project

Vulcan Energy has secured a significant lithium hydroxide supply agreement with mining giant Glencore for its Lionheart Project in Europe. The eight-year deal represents approximately 20% of Vulcan’s planned Phase One output and marks the final offtake agreement for project financing. This partnership strengthens Europe’s position in the global electric vehicle supply chain.

Australian lithium developer Vulcan Energy has signed a strategic supply agreement with global mining giant Glencore to provide lithium hydroxide monohydrate from its European operations, marking a significant advancement in the continent’s electric vehicle battery supply chain. The eight-year deal represents approximately 20% of Vulcan’s planned Phase One production capacity and solidifies the company’s position as a key player in Europe’s green energy transition.

Strategic Partnership Details and Volume Commitments

by Elisa RomeroOctober 13, 2025

Business Business Acquisition

Caterpillar to acquire Australia’s RPMGlobal for $728 million

Caterpillar Announces Major Acquisition of RPMGlobal in $728 Million Deal Heavy machinery leader Caterpillar has entered into a definitive agreement…

by Elisa RomeroOctober 13, 2025

AI Impact Education

AI Cheating Detection Systems Wrongly Accuse University Students

University students are being wrongly accused of AI-assisted cheating based on flawed detection systems. One nursing student waited six months to clear her name while her career prospects suffered, illustrating the human cost of automated academic integrity enforcement.

University students worldwide are facing false accusations of AI cheating based on unreliable detection systems, with Australian Catholic University at the center of a growing controversy that highlights the serious flaws in automated academic integrity enforcement. According to new reporting from Australia’s ABC News, the institution has been using artificial intelligence systems to detect cheating, resulting in numerous false positives that have derailed students’ academic careers and professional prospects.