Australia seeks to curb social media algorithms with new feed choice law
Australia’s proposed “My Feed, My Way” reforms would let users opt out of algorithmic recommendations and see only content from accounts they follow.
The Australian government has proposed new legislation aimed at giving social media users more control over the content they see on their feeds. Under the proposed 'My Feed, My Way' initiative, users will be able to opt into or out of algorithmically recommended content, choosing instead to see posts only from the friends and creators they follow.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that this reform is sensible, pragmatic, and practical, giving users choice and holding big tech companies accountable if they fail to comply. The proposed legislation draws parallels with the European Union's Digital Services Act, which has required platforms to offer users the option to switch off profiling since 2024.
However, Meta Platforms and Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The legislation also requires digital platforms to document measures taken to address identified risks of harm to Australian users and ensures those measures remain effective over time. Failure to comply could result in penalties of up to A$109.2 million, with the eSafety Commissioner responsible for compliance and enforcement.
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