Australians may soon have more control over what appears on their social media feeds. The government is preparing new laws that could give users the right to switch off personalised algorithms.
The proposal is part of wider digital safety reforms. Communications Minister Anika Wells said the laws would create basic safety rules for technology companies. She said major platforms should not be allowed to decide what users see without giving them another option.
Under the proposed rules, companies such as Meta, Google and TikTok could face large fines if they refuse to provide a way to disable their recommendation systems. Algorithms are used by social media platforms to select posts, videos and other content for each user. They are designed to keep people interested and spending more time on the platform.
The government says users should be able to choose whether they want this experience. Some people may prefer algorithms because they help them discover useful information, entertainment or local businesses. Wells said the government would seek advice from experts before deciding whether people should automatically receive algorithm-based feeds or actively choose to use them.
The proposal has faced criticism from some opposition politicians. Liberal Party leader Angus Taylor said he was doubtful about the plan. He warned that it could become a form of government censorship.The government rejects that argument. Wells said the aim was not to control what Australians can say or view. Instead, she said technology companies should identify risks on their platforms and take steps to reduce them.
The rules come after Australia’s social media restrictions for children under 16. Wells acknowledged that no technology company has yet been fined for failing to enforce those rules. Research has also suggested that many young people who used social media before the restrictions continue to access the platforms.
The government is also facing pressure from consent campaigner Chanel Contos. She has called for users to actively opt in to algorithm-driven feeds.Contos says recommendation systems can expose young people to harmful material. She has also linked these systems to the spread of misogynistic online communities and sexual violence.
The draft laws are expected to be presented within days. They are likely to cover more than personalised algorithms.The legislation could also require social media companies to take action against harmful content.
This may include illegal pornography and material that encourages disordered eating.The government says the goal is to give Australians greater control and stronger safety protections when using social media.
