Australian government proposes legislation to allow social media algorithm opt-outs
The Australian government is introducing legislation that would require social media companies to allow users to opt out of algorithmic feeds in favor of chronological ones. The proposed digital duty of care laws also aim to limit children's exposure to harmful content, including material related to eating disorders and misogyny.
First reported 1 week ago · latest update 1 week ago
The Australian government has announced that it will introduce legislation allowing social‑media users to opt out of algorithmic content feeds. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the plan, saying the measure will give Australians a choice over how they receive posts on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Under the proposed law, users will be able to select either the existing algorithm‑driven feed or a “following feed” that displays content in chronological order from accounts they follow. The option to switch between the two formats is intended to give individuals greater control over the material that appears in their timelines.
The legislation is described as a tough new regulatory step aimed at addressing concerns about the influence of algorithmic curation on public discourse and mental health. It forms part of a broader effort by the government to increase transparency and accountability in the digital environment.
Social‑media companies have faced criticism for employing algorithms that are alleged to be addictive, prompting calls for reforms that limit the automatic promotion of content based on engagement metrics. Critics argue that such algorithms can amplify sensational or polarising material, while supporters contend they help surface relevant posts for users.
The government has indicated that the law will be introduced to parliament in the coming months, with a timetable for implementation to follow. Once enacted, platforms operating in Australia will be required to provide the opt‑out mechanism and ensure that users can easily switch between algorithmic and chronological feeds.
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Australia proposes opt-out law for social media algorithms - Financial Times
Australia proposes opt-out law for social media algorithms Financial Times
1 week agoAustralia to opt out of social media algorithms, Albanese confirms
Labor says Australians would be able to choose between existing algorithms or their “following feed” under tough new legislation.
1 week ago · Brittany BuschAustralia to force social media giants to allow users to opt out of algorithm
Draft legislation enforces digital duty of care including limiting children’s exposure to misogynistic and eating disorder contentAustralia will allow social media account holders to opt out of the powerful algorithms pushing dangerous and divisive content into users’ feeds, part of new laws designed to boost online safety.Users over 16 years of age will be given new tools to turn off algorithm-driven content, with platforms facing fines of more than $100m for non-compliance. Continue reading...
1 week ago · Tom McIlroy and Luca IttimaniNew law to force social media giants to allow users to opt out of algorithms
Social media giants will be forced to allow Australian users to opt out of algorithms under a new proposal.
1 week agoAustralia to opt out of social media algorithms, Albanese confirms
Labor says Australians would be able to choose between existing algorithms or their “following feed” under tough new legislation.
1 week ago · Brittany BuschNew law to force social media giants to allow users to opt out of algorithms
Social media giants will be forced to allow Australian users to opt out of algorithms under a new proposal.
1 week agoAustralia wants to allow users to opt out of social media algorithms
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1 week ago