Australia Proposes Algorithm Feed Opt-Out With A$109.2 Million Penalties for Users Over 16
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Sep 8
Australia Proposes Algorithm Feed Opt-Out With A$109.2 Million Penalties for Users Over 16
3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Sep 8
Summary
Australia's draft "My Feed, My Way" law would force social media platforms to let users over 16 choose between algorithmic recommendations and feeds limited to accounts they follow.
A$109.2 million in penalties could hit companies that fail to notify new and existing users and offer a default-feed choice under legislation the Albanese government plans to introduce this year.
The package also targets addictive design, requiring AI chatbots, online games and other digital services to protect under-18s from features regulators see as harmful.
The proposal follows Australia's under-16 social media ban last year, though eSafety data showed 81% of children still used at least one age-restricted platform three months later, versus 86% before the ban.
Pressure on platforms has widened globally: Meta agreed in an $18 billion U.S. settlement in August to offer under-18 users a non-algorithmic feed and other safety changes.