'Not that radical': expert welcomes algorithm crackdown

A prominent expert has welcomed proposals for stricter regulations on social media companies following Australia's ban on under-16s using the platforms. Communications Minister Anika Wells has called for larger fines and greater powers for the eSafety Commissioner to combat loopholes exploited by teens. Despite research showing that nearly 80% of teenagers younger than 16 continued using social media after the December ban, the government is expected to release draft legislation allowing users to opt out of algorithms.

Media expert Belinda Barnet argues that while this move won't eliminate all issues on social media, it represents a significant step towards reducing addiction by removing one of the manipulative elements inherent in AI-driven feeds.