Australia picks new fight with social media cos? Labour govt proposes legislation to allow users to decide algorithm
Australia on Tuesday proposed new legislation that would allow social media users to opt out of platform algorithms and control their feeds. The Digital Duty of Care bill will require digital services to protect under-18s from harmful content and addictive design features.
The Australian government has unveiled a new bill that could allow social media users to opt out of platform algorithms, potentially signaling a major shift in global regulation of Big Tech and a reduction in online harm. The proposed legislation, dubbed the Digital Duty of Care, was presented by the Labor government and would give users control over algorithm-driven recommendations, the ability to block suggested content, and the option to customize their feeds.
This move follows Australia's recent decision to ban social media access for children under 16, a measure that has since been implemented by other nations. Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that the legislation is intended to address concerning trends in platform design and protect young users. The bill would require companies to notify both new and existing users of their choice over default feeds, and would mandate protections for those under 18 from certain negative behavioural impacts, such as addictive features or self-esteem issues.
The bill's introduction comes amid growing international scrutiny of social media platforms, with governments in the US and EU taking legal and regulatory action over concerns about online harms.
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