Australians may soon control social media algorithmic content

The Australian government hopes to introduce a new law that could change what audiences see on their social media feeds.

Under the proposed new bill, every Australian would be able to choose whether they want their social media content served up by algorithms or not under a proposal to “empower” people online.

The government will seek support for an opt-in/opt-out system where platforms like TikTok, Instagram or Facebook would be required to send account holders a push notification asking them to decide if they receive recommended content.

The social media algorithm controls come under broader “Digital Duty of Care” draft laws that shift responsibility onto big tech to proactively reduce foreseeable harms or face fines of more than $100 million.

For children, the proposed duty covers issues like bullying, pornography, misogyny and eating disorders, while for adults the focus is on criminality, violence and threats.

The draft laws released for consultation on Tuesday require platforms to give Australians the choice between algorithmically recommended posts and videos, or a feed showing only accounts they follow.

“We have an opportunity to shape technology for the better, rather than let it shape us,” Australia’s prime Minister Anthony Albanese said. (ABC News)

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