Australia's digital duty of care bill a ‘global reckoning for big tech’, minister says – video

Sydney, September 8 — Australia's government has introduced draft laws that would impose fines of up to US$78 million on major tech companies if they do not protect young users from harmful content, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced today. Under the proposed legislation, social media firms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram would be held accountable for safeguarding under-18s from pornography, online bullying, content that glorifies crime, and content that encourages eating disorders.

"Enough is enough," Albanese told reporters, explaining that the government took action due to widespread community concern over the matter. "We will no longer treat Australian children as commodities rather than children." The "duty of care" rules are an extension of Australia's inaugural social media ban for users under 16, which came into force late last year. Companies found to be in breach of their "duty of care" could face fines of up to A$109 million.

The legislation also mandates that platforms allow users to "opt out" of personalized algorithms that determine content displayed in social media feeds. This provision aims to provide Australians with greater control over their online experience. Communications Minister Anika Wells described the situation as a "reckoning" for big tech, highlighting the impact of social media on daily life, both positive and negative.

Her comments came amid data showing that under-16s in Australia are increasing their use of social media apps like Instagram and TikTok despite the ban. The draft laws are set to be presented to parliament later this year after consultation with social media companies, industry bodies, and civil society groups.