Australia vows to hold big tech companies to account on social media — with $78.6 million fines

Australian authorities have announced plans to enforce stricter regulations on big tech companies, imposing fines of up to $78.6 million to ensure greater user control and safety on social media platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed the proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation, which would empower users aged 16 and above to make informed choices about their social media feeds.

The government aims to protect children from harmful content, such as eating disorder promotion and mental health distress, by implementing measures to safeguard minors from accessing potentially damaging material.

The legislation would compel social media platforms to provide tools that allow users to opt out of algorithm-driven feeds, granting them the ability to choose their default content. Users may select to view their friends' and creators' content instead of personalized recommendations. Additionally, digital services such as online games, mobile applications, and AI chatbots will also be held accountable for safeguarding children from detrimental design elements, like addictive features and self-esteem issues.

Australia introduced groundbreaking laws in December last year, prohibiting children under 16 from creating accounts on major social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. The proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation intends to reinforce these measures and hold big tech companies responsible for their inaction. Non-compliance could result in significant penalties, with fines potentially reaching 109.2 million Australian dollars ($78.6 million).