Australia to force social media giants to allow users to opt out of algorithm
The Australian government is introducing legislation to force social media companies to provide users with an option to opt out of algorithmic feeds. The 'my feed, my way' initiative aims to increase user control and protect minors from harmful content.
Why it matters
This represents a significant regulatory push to curb the influence of social media algorithms and hold tech giants accountable for user safety.
Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, said social media giants would be forced to provide an opt-out option for users under the duty of care legislation. Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, said social media giants would be forced to provide an opt-out option for users under the duty of care legislation. Australian politics ‘Global reckoning for big tech’: Australia to force social media platforms to allow users to opt out of algorithms Draft legislation enforces digital duty of care including limiting children’s exposure to misogynistic and eating disorder content
Prefer the Guardian on Google Australia 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 A$100m for non-compliance.
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