The structure of the report confirms this, with conclusions announced early and evidence marshalled selectively to support them. At the centre of the report is Recommendation 3: the creation of an independent national regulator for online safety. Age restrictions require age verification, which in turn requires identity disclosure to the very platforms the report deems untrustworthy. Evidence from Australia offers no compelling support for age restrictions reducing harm rather than merely shifting it. Perhaps the most alarming recommendation is the suggestion that the regulator explore ways to prevent young people from using VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to bypass age restrictions.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 15, 2026 05:02 UTC