Australia Proposes $109.2 Million Fine for Social Platforms

Australia has introduced a bill that allows users to disable sorting algorithms on social networks, with platforms potentially facing fines of up to $109.2 million for violating new digital duty of care obligations. The proposal, titled "My Feed, My Way," requires platforms to let users choose how their default information feed operates. Users who opt for personalization will continue to receive recommendations, while those who decline will only see content from accounts they follow. Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that users aged 16 and over can easily opt in or out of algorithmic feeds, and platforms must respect this decision. The bill also extends to online gaming, applications, and AI chatbots, protecting minors under 18 from harmful features. Platforms must prevent minors from accessing specific categories of harmful content, including pornography, bullying, and emotional abuse. The eSafety Commissioner will be granted the authority to remove nudify applications and websites, and a streamlined process will be adopted for complaints regarding online bullying of children and adult online abuse. The government plans to submit the bill to Parliament by the end of the year.

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