Australia is set to introduce new legislation aimed at giving social media users aged 16 and older the ability to opt out of algorithm-driven feeds. This initiative, referred to as the “my feed, my way” system, would empower individuals to control the content they encounter online by allowing them to see posts only from those they have deliberately chosen to follow. Additionally, platforms will be required to prompt users to select their preferred feed settings, thereby granting them greater autonomy over their online experience.
The government has articulated that these reforms are designed to minimize exposure to potentially harmful and divisive content while also ensuring that Australians have more say in how social media platforms influence their online interactions. Companies that do not adhere to these new regulations could face significant penalties, with fines exceeding A$100 million. Beyond this, the proposed legislation seeks to implement a wider digital duty of care for individuals under 18, mandating that social media services, online games, apps, and AI chatbots take specific actions to combat harmful content categories.
Further strengthening these measures, Australia’s online safety regulator is set to receive enhanced enforcement powers, including the authority to issue removal notices to platforms. Companies will also be obligated to document the steps they are taking to mitigate online safety risks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has emphasized that these reforms are crafted to redirect control from major technology companies to the users themselves.
The government plans to present this legislation to Parliament before Christmas, though it is anticipated to undergo thorough scrutiny and negotiation. Concerns have been raised by the opposition, suggesting that the measures might grant the government too much control over online content. Meanwhile, some advocates argue for even stronger safeguards and more severe penalties. These reforms are part of a broader Australian strategy to enhance regulation of significant technology platforms and bolster protections for younger users online.