Australia has proposed new legislation to establish a digital duty of care, aimed at boosting online safety and limiting online harm. This potentially far-reaching step is part of broader regulatory efforts worldwide to rein in Big Tech and address increasing scrutiny over addictive algorithms.
The planned laws would allow social media users over 16 years of age to opt out of powerful algorithms that push dangerous and divisive content into their feeds. This move aims to give Australians greater feed control, potentially transforming the user experience into a choice between the current doom-scrolling status quo or a feed of the friends they want to see. Additionally, the legislation seeks to limit children's exposure to eating disorder and misogynistic content.
Firms such as Meta, Google, and TikTok may face substantial penalties if they do not provide this option, with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines of more than $100 million. However, there are concerns that tech companies may still find ways to frustrate the intent of the legislation to keep Australians hooked on their feeds.