Australia is considering new regulatory powers that would require major app store operators to block artificial intelligence services that fail to implement effective age-verification safeguards, as part of a broader push to strengthen online protections for children.

The proposal, outlined by senior government figures in recent briefings, would shift greater responsibility onto platform gatekeepers such as Apple and Google to ensure that AI-driven applications available for download in Australia comply with emerging child safety standards.

Under the model being examined, app stores could be required to prevent the distribution of generative AI tools that do not include reliable mechanisms to verify users’ ages or restrict access by minors.

The move comes amid growing concern about the rapid adoption of conversational AI systems and image-generation tools among young users.

Policymakers have pointed to risks including exposure to inappropriate content, manipulation, and the collection of sensitive personal data.

Officials argue that app stores are uniquely positioned to enforce compliance because they control market access for most consumer-facing mobile software.

The proposal forms part of Australia’s wider digital safety agenda, which has already seen strengthened powers for the eSafety Commissioner and new codes addressing harmful online content.

While no final decision has been announced, the government has indicated it is prepared to legislate if voluntary measures by technology companies prove insufficient.

Technology industry representatives have cautioned that implementing strict age-assurance requirements for AI tools presents technical and privacy challenges.

Developers warn that overly rigid rules could stifle innovation or restrict access to legitimate educational and productivity applications.

However, child protection advocates have welcomed the prospect of clearer obligations, arguing that rapid advances in generative AI demand proportionate regulatory oversight.

Any mandatory framework would likely form part of a broader consultation process, with draft legislation subject to parliamentary scrutiny.

Officials have emphasised that the objective is not to block AI innovation but to ensure that emerging technologies operate within safeguards that protect children and uphold community standards.

If adopted, the approach would position Australia among the more assertive jurisdictions globally in regulating artificial intelligence distribution channels, reflecting Canberra’s stated intention to balance technological progress with online safety protections.