Don't Want Algorithms Picking Your Feed? Australia Plans Opt-Out For Social Media Users

Australian social media users may soon have the option to opt-out of algorithms selecting the content on their feeds, following proposed legislation announced by the government. This move aims to give users greater control over their online experience and enhance protections for children. The legislation requires social media platforms to provide users over 16 with tools allowing them to choose between algorithm-generated content and posts from friends and creators they follow.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of granting users "genuine and enduring choice" regarding their feeds. Platforms would need to inform users about their options for default feeds, with the choice to either see algorithm-recommended content or content from their social connections. The legislation also imposes penalties of up to A$109.2 million for non-compliance, holding big tech companies accountable for their actions.

Additionally, the proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation seeks to safeguard children from various harmful content, including eating disorder promotions, hostility towards women, pornography, crime, dangerous stunts, and self-esteem-affecting design features. This initiative follows Australia's December 2025 ban on children under 16 holding accounts on major social media platforms and comes after the online safety watchdog considered legal action against platforms for not adequately protecting children under 16.