Australia could make social media algorithms optional and follow UK ban on pornography depicting strangulation

The Australian government is contemplating a significant shift in its approach to social media regulation, potentially allowing users to opt in or out of algorithms used by platforms. This proposal is part of the government's broader strategy to address the rise in sexual violence among teenagers, with the social services minister, Tanya Plibersek, attributing this trend to the influence of social media.

Additionally, the government is examining the UK's recent ban on pornography depicting strangulation and suffocation, which could inform its own regulatory measures. This move comes as Australia develops its second action plan to combat family and domestic violence against women and children, reflecting a growing concern over the impact of digital platforms on societal safety and wellbeing.

Brief written by urgent.news from The Guardian Australia's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.