Australia’s federal government has proposed legislation that would require social media platforms to allow users over the age of 16 to opt out of algorithmically curated feeds, giving individuals greater control over the content they see online.
Under the draft laws, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X would be required to notify new and existing users of their right to choose between an algorithmically recommended feed or a chronological feed showing only posts from accounts they follow. The initiative, titled “My Feed, My Way,” is part of broader Digital Duty of Care legislation aimed at reducing foreseeable harms on digital platforms.
Social media companies that fail to comply with the proposed rules could face penalties of up to 109.2 million Australian dollars ($79 million). The legislation also mandates that digital services, including AI chatbots and online games, implement measures to protect users under 18 from addictive design features and harmful content.
Key Requirements of the Proposed Law
The draft legislation outlines several specific obligations for social media platforms and digital services:
- User Choice Mandate: Platforms must send notifications to users upon account creation or updates, offering a clear choice between an algorithmically curated feed or a chronological feed. Users would retain the ability to change their selection at any time.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Companies that do not adhere to the rules may be subject to fines of up to 109.2 million Australian dollars ($79 million), as well as potential enforcement actions by regulators.
- Child Protection Measures: Digital services must take steps to prevent exposure to content promoting eating disorders, misogyny, pornography, crime, dangerous stunts, and other harmful material for users under 18. This includes addressing addictive design features that encourage prolonged engagement.
- Documentation and Accountability: Platforms will be required to document the measures they implement to mitigate risks and ensure these protections remain effective over time.
Government Rationale and Public Statements
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese framed the initiative as a move to empower users rather than exert government control over online content. He stated at a press conference on Tuesday that the legislation is intended to “put choice back into the hands of Australians online” and hold tech companies accountable for inaction.
Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized that the choice would be repeated and enduring, allowing users to change their preferences as often as they wish. She noted that while many users may prefer algorithmic feeds, the law ensures those who do not have an alternative.
The government has described the proposal as “sensible, pragmatic, and practical reform,” aligning with broader global efforts to regulate Big Tech. Australia previously implemented a world-first social media ban for children under 16 in December 2024, which prohibits minors from holding accounts on major platforms.
Global Context and Comparisons
Australia’s proposal follows similar regulatory actions in other jurisdictions. The European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which took full effect in 2024, requires platforms to offer users the option to opt out of algorithmic profiling. However, regulators have noted challenges in implementation, with complaints that some platforms made it unnecessarily difficult for users to switch off algorithmic recommendations.
Critics of social media algorithms argue that these systems are designed to maximize engagement, often leading to prolonged screen time and exposure to harmful or polarizing content. Proponents of user choice contend that algorithmic feeds can create echo chambers and contribute to mental health issues, particularly among young users.
Reactions and Public Sentiment
The proposed legislation has drawn mixed reactions from advocacy groups and the public. Chanel Contos, a consent advocate, has publicly supported the opt-out option, stating that it would allow users to avoid algorithm-driven content that may reinforce harmful narratives.
Social media users in Australia have expressed a range of views. Some have welcomed the choice as a step toward greater autonomy, while others have questioned whether the opt-out option will be easily accessible or effectively enforced. The government has indicated that consultations will continue before the legislation is finalized and introduced to Parliament later this year.
Next Steps and Legislative Timeline
The draft laws were released on Tuesday for targeted consultation, with the government aiming to introduce the legislation to Parliament in 2025. Stakeholders, including tech companies, child safety advocates, and digital rights organizations, will have an opportunity to provide feedback before the final version is drafted.
If passed, Australia would join a growing number of countries taking steps to regulate social media algorithms, reflecting a broader shift toward user empowerment and platform accountability in the digital space.