The UK and Australia published a joint statement on 3 November 2026 on addressing online violence in Commonwealth democracies, with a focus on the abuse faced by women parliamentarians. The statement says more than 6000 women parliamentarians serve across 180 state and federal parliaments in Commonwealth countries, and that in both countries women parliamentarians are three times more likely than men to report receiving sexualised or gender-based threats, online and in person.

The statement describes a toxic online environment as a threat to democratic values and participation, noting that elected representatives in both countries have been killed or injured for doing their jobs. It says talented people may choose not to stand for election because of the abuse they see representatives and their families face, and argues that governments, technology companies and other stakeholders all have a role in creating safer online spaces.

It points to commitments made at the UN General Assembly and to bilateral memorandums of understanding on ending gender-based violence and on online safety. The two governments said they will work with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians and other Commonwealth countries to protect parliamentarians from online abuse, and plan to hold a first forum in 2027. The statement also notes that software tools are being trialled in parliaments and welcomes such innovation.