The Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is proposing the 'My Feed, My Way' legislation. This law would allow social media users over 16 to opt out of recommendation algorithms that push divisive or dangerous content. Users who choose this option will only see posts from accounts they actively follow.
The legislation introduces a 'digital duty of care' for users under 18, requiring online games, AI chatbots, and apps to protect children from pornography, content promoting eating disorders, and bullying. The eSafety commission will have the power to issue removal notices and require platforms to document their safety measures.
Platforms that fail to comply with the algorithm opt-out rules may face fines exceeding AUD 100 million. The government expects to introduce the bill before Christmas, though it may face lengthy public inquiries and negotiations. Some critics, including the Greens party, argue that penalties should be based on a percentage of global revenue rather than fixed sums.
Additionally, the government is moving an amendment to strengthen the eSafety Commissioner's powers to enforce social media age restrictions for those under 16. This follows a study showing that over 85% of teenagers under 16 continued using social media after restrictions were implemented. The amendment will double the maximum fines for breaching age restrictions to AUD 99 million.
