On this week's Tech Check, both new players and old continue with the battle for online governance:

READ:

A new peak body representing the Australian tech sector is launched. (via InnovationAus). The Tech Council of Australia represents local technology companies and joins the technology policy and advocacy landscape. Led by Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm its members include Atlassian, Canva and Afterpay. While local tech voices are welcome the Council is likely to advocate for deregulation and market-driven initiatives, in an environment where the lack of tech regulation has already caused significant issues.

The ACCC considers regulating Google and Apple to boost app store competition. (via Guardian). ACCC Chair Rod Sims argues that "upfront rules and regulations" may be required to force the tech giants to open up their app stores to stronger competition. A report released as part of the inquiry revealed that Google and Apple faced very little competition, and that their current control was stifling competition.

Australia's eSafety Commissioner begins consultation process on potential age verification system. (via eSafety). The consultation will inform a roadmap due to be presented to the Government in 2022 and will align with updates to Australia’s restricted access system (RAS) declaration, which has been helping to protect Australian children from exposure to inappropriate content since 2007.

WATCH:

The documentary that mainstreamed social media issues of the day "Social Dilemma" will be available free on Youtube until September 30. Catch it while you can, and try not to get radicalised within Youtube in the process...

LISTEN:

An interview with one of the leading voices in today's tech policy debate Roger McNamee. (via Tech Policy Press) Listen to Roger's take on today's current tech landscape and how to hold tech accountable.

EVENTS:

The 2021 NetThing conference hosted by the Australian Internet Governance Forum will be held online on November. This year's themes are Health, Education, Trust and Inclusion. More details on their website.