North Weekly
Australia’s Labour government is preparing proposals to let its 21 million social media users opt out of Big Tech algorithms, under draft legislation titled the ‘digital duty of care.’ This would be the world’s first such rules, requiring platforms like X, Meta’s Instagram, and Facebook to provide users with the option to disable algorithms fine-tuning content recommendations to personal taste. The proposal is separate from the government’s Online Safety Amendment Bill, which aims to strengthen rules around social media access for under-16s.
Under the new rules, users could opt out via pop-up messages, and companies would be required to identify and manage platform risks. Communications Minister Anika Wells highlighted the measures to prevent illegal content dissemination and reduce risks like eating disorders among young people. The draft rules also aim to address six additional areas of psycho-social harm for children, including body image issues and bullying.
Breaches could result in fines of up to A$100 million. Opposition leader Angus Taylor expressed skepticism, warning that the rules might lead to censorship. Meanwhile, independent research shows that despite Australia’s 2023 ban on under-16 social media access, many children still access these platforms. Experts suggest the new laws may include provisions for eSafety Commissioner oversight and researcher involvement to ensure compliance.
Source: The Independent
