US criticises Australia's proposed algorithm opt-out laws as 'censorship'

The United States has expressed serious concerns over Australia's proposed algorithm opt-out laws, arguing that they constitute censorship of protected speech. According to Australia's draft digital duty of care laws, social media companies risk substantial fines if they do not provide users with the option to disable algorithms designed to protect them from harmful content.

In a rare submission to the proposed legislation, the US embassy in Canberra stated its concerns about the potential for viewpoint-based censorship if vague definitions of "harm" and "risk" are enforced.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese contends that the legislation aims to give individuals control over their digital experiences rather than granting governments control. He urges Australia to clarify how "harm" and "risks" will be determined, ensuring these definitions do not infringe upon protected speech. The US also argues that the proposed laws may limit the reach of independent journalists or other voices addressing sensitive or controversial topics if tech firms are forced to pre-emptively demote such content.

Allowing regulators to impose uniform platform design requirements through an opt-out mechanism could negatively impact users outside of Australia, the US claims. Furthermore, the US calls on Australia to address industry concerns that the biases and preferences of government officials could disadvantage independent or minority viewpoints. Another worry is that the proposed laws may affect Australia's reputation as a jurisdiction that enables innovation.

The criticism of Australia's proposed laws coincides with Prime Minister Albanese's visit to the US for a speech at the UN General Assembly regarding his government's tech policies. Upon his return, Albanese addressed the US's concerns, affirming that the legislation is not about government control but empowering people to control their digital experiences.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump downplayed fears surrounding artificial intelligence, rejecting guardrails and proposing to rename AI as "super intelligence." Australia's move to protect its online users from harm follows a social media ban for children under 16, introduced less than a year ago.