In brief
Under a draft law announced by Communications Minister Anika Wells, Australians could opt to disable algorithmic feeds on platforms like Meta, Google and TikTok. The bill aims to enforce digital duty‑of‑care standards and imposes hefty penalties on firms that fail to offer an opt‑out. While some opposition leaders label the move as censorship, the government insists it is about safer online experiences and ensuring tech giants respect user choice. The legislation also targets illegal content such as child‑pornography and disordered‑eating propaganda, building on last year’s under‑16 social‑media ban.
Australians could soon disable algorithmic feeds on platforms like Meta, Google and TikTok. The proposal, detailed by Communications Minister Anika Wells, forms part of a broader digital duty‑of‑care framework.
Wells said the law would impose "substantial" penalties on firms that do not offer an opt‑out, emphasizing the need for basic safety protections that the industry has not yet been required to observe.
Opposition figures, including Liberal leader Angus Taylor, criticised the move as potential censorship, arguing it could restrict free speech. However, Wells stressed the legislation is about mitigating risks, not silencing voices.
The bill will also tackle harmful content, such as illegal pornography and disordered‑eating material, building on the earlier under‑16 social‑media ban that saw many young people continue using platforms despite restrictions.
Industry experts and lawmakers will review whether users should opt‑in or opt‑out of algorithms, echoing recent calls from consent advocates like Chanel Contos who warned about misogynistic and violent content pushed by algorithms.
The draft legislation is expected to be introduced in the coming days. For more on Australia’s ongoing social‑media ban, read the detailed guide here.
