Australia is set to introduce new laws that will allow social media account holders to opt out of algorithms that push content into their feeds. This initiative, part of broader online safety measures, will provide users over 16 with tools to disable algorithm-driven content.
Social media platforms that fail to comply with these new regulations could face fines exceeding $100m. Under the plan, dubbed 'my feed, my way', users who opt out will only see content from individuals and groups they have actively chosen to follow. Users will be prompted via a pop-up message to select their default feed.
The new legislation also includes provisions for a digital duty of care for social media users under 18. This will require online games, apps, and AI chatbots to protect children from specific harms, including pornography, content promoting eating disorders, misogynistic content, content glorifying crime or life-endangering stunts, and content causing serious mental health distress, such as abuse and bullying.
Australia's eSafety commissioner will be empowered to issue removal notices to social media platforms, which will then need to document their measures to address online harms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is expected to discuss these plans at the United Nations general assembly later this month, stating the aim is to give people control rather than government control.
The Labor government will require the support of the Greens to pass these laws through parliament. The main opposition parties, the Liberals and Nationals, have indicated opposition, cautioning against efforts to censor the internet.