Australia's Labor government is facing significant opposition in federal parliament over its plans to regulate social media algorithms. Communications Minister Anika Wells is expected to introduce draft legislation this week, aiming to establish a digital duty of care for social media users.
The proposed rules include requiring popular social media platforms to allow users to disable algorithms that control content in their feeds. The legislation also seeks to improve the identification of problematic or illegal content to safeguard vulnerable users, including children.
Labor's objective is to enhance protection for social media users from content that reinforces dangerous stereotypes and behaviours, particularly concerning body image, women's safety, and child protection. Breaches of the new rules could result in fines exceeding $100m, with the eSafety commissioner and researchers gaining new powers to investigate compliance.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor has expressed deep scepticism, warning that the government's efforts could be an attempt to "censor" free speech online. He stated that the government should address issues with its existing ban on social media for under 16s before implementing new regulations. The Coalition's shadow home affairs minister, Jonno Duniam, indicated that the Coalition would only support the plan if it does not "impede on people's rights and freedoms."
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has also criticised the plan, arguing that Labor should not control online content. Given the opposition, any new legislation would require support from the Greens to pass the Senate. The Greens have advocated for opt-in rules, where users would explicitly consent to algorithm-based content.