Australia to force social media platforms to allow users to opt out of algorithms
News Source
β’Tue, 08 Sep 2026 08:38:59 GMT
π° What Happened
Australia will let social media users over 16 switch off algorithm-driven content. Platforms that refuse could face fines of more than A$100 million. Under the plan, users see a pop-up and choose their default feed. People who opt out will only see posts from accounts they follow.
The new laws also create a digital duty of care for users under 18. Online games, apps and AI chatbots must protect children from specific harms. These include pornography, and content that promotes misogyny or eating disorders.
π The Backstory
The government calls the plan 'my feed, my way'. It is part of a wider crackdown that already banned social media for teenagers. Ministers describe it as a 'global reckoning for big tech'.
Australia has become a world leader in testing new platform rules. The idea is that companies should owe a duty of care, like banks and airlines do. Other countries are watching to see if the model works.
π― Why It Matters
Algorithms decide what teenagers see online every day. This law could limit exposure to harmful content like misogyny and pro-eating-disorder posts. It gives families more control over the apps kids use most.
Australia will let social media users over 16 switch off algorithm-driven content. Platforms that refuse could face fines of more than A$100 million. Under the plan, users see a pop-up and choose their default feed. People who opt out will only see posts from accounts they follow.
The new laws also create a digital duty of care for users under 18. Online games, apps and AI chatbots must protect children from specific harms. These include pornography, and content that promotes misogyny or eating disorders.
The government calls the plan 'my feed, my way'. It is part of a wider crackdown that already banned social media for teenagers. Ministers describe it as a 'global reckoning for big tech'.
Australia has become a world leader in testing new platform rules. The idea is that companies should owe a duty of care, like banks and airlines do. Other countries are watching to see if the model works.
Algorithms decide what teenagers see online every day. This law could limit exposure to harmful content like misogyny and pro-eating-disorder posts. It gives families more control over the apps kids use most.