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Australia to allow social media algorithm opt-out
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Australia proposed laws letting users over 16 opt out of social media algorithms. The move follows its 2025 teen ban and targets Big Tech feed control.
Background
Australia's Labor government has been pushing stricter tech regulations, following a world-first ban on under-16s using major social media platforms in December 2025. The new draft legislation, part of a broader 'Digital Duty of Care', aims to give users more control over their feeds and hold platforms accountable for harmful content.
How it unfolded
- Dec 2025Australia introduced world-first laws banning children under 16 from holding accounts on major social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
- Sep 7, 2026Communications Minister Anika Wells told the ABC that draft laws would be unveiled this week to force platforms to offer an opt-out from algorithms.
- Sep 8, 2026Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the 'My Feed, My Way' proposal, requiring platforms to notify users over 16 and let them choose between algorithmic or chronological feeds. Non-compliance could incur fines up to 109.2 million Australian dollars.
Who’s saying what
- Government
- Prime Minister Albanese called it 'sensible, pragmatic, practical reform' that gives users choice and holds big tech responsible.
- Expert
- An expert from The Conversation praised the move but noted past issues with enforcement transparency, hoping the new laws include eSafety Commissioner and researcher oversight.