Australia’s proposed ‘opt out’ law targets Big Tech algorithms
Social media platforms face scrutiny over addictive algorithms; new law aims to give Australians greater feed control.
Social media platforms could be forced to give users in Australia an option to turn off “powerful” algorithms under draft laws to be unveiled by the government this week, Communications Minister Anika Wells told the ABC national broadcaster.
The proposed legislation would require companies like Meta to undertake what the government calls a digital duty of care as it steps up efforts to tackle online harm.
“A lot of Australians appreciate the algorithm, both for the enjoyment they get out of it or the utility they get out of it,” Anika Wells said.
Australia’s opposition leader, Angus Taylor, told the ABC that the Coalition had not seen the Labor government’s bill.