Australia Plans Social Media Algorithm Opt-Out for Users

CANBERRA: (News Desk) – Australians could soon be given greater control over the algorithms that shape their social media feeds under proposed legislation targeting major technology companies.

The draft law, expected to be introduced in parliament this week, would require large platforms to adopt a “digital duty of care” and give users the option to switch off personalized recommendation algorithms.

Communications Minister Anika Wells said many Australians enjoy algorithm-driven content and find it useful, but argued that users should have the final say over whether they want personalized recommendations.

She said the proposed rules would provide Australians with greater choice over the content appearing in their feeds and require technology companies to respect those preferences.

Social media platforms have faced growing criticism over recommendation systems that critics say can encourage excessive use and expose users to sensational, harmful or extreme material in an effort to keep them engaged.

The proposed measures come after Australia introduced legislation in December preventing children under 16 from using social media platforms. The move was part of an unprecedented effort to address online bullying and concerns surrounding algorithms targeting young users.

Other countries, including the United Kingdom and France, have since introduced or considered similar measures aimed at protecting children online.

However, data released last month indicated that some Australian children under 16 were still increasing their use of popular platforms such as Instagram and TikTok despite the restrictions.