Australia plans law allowing users to turn off algorithms to protect children from harmful conten
Targeting big tech engagement practices, new Australian legislation would require social media firms to let users opt out of personalized recommendation algorithms
The Australian government is preparing to introduce landmark legislation that would compel major social media companies to give users the ability to turn off personalized recommendation algorithms.
Social media platforms could be forced to give users in Australia an option to turn off “powerful” algorithms under draft laws to be unveiled by the government this week, Communications Minister Anika Wells told the ABC national broadcaster.
The draft legislation introduces a mandatory "digital duty of care" for technology platforms operating within the country.
If passed, the law would require corporations such as Meta to provide clear mechanisms for users to switch off engagement-driven algorithms that curate feeds based on personal data.
While acknowledging that many users appreciate the utility or entertainment value of algorithmic curation, the federal government emphasizes that big tech firms must offer a transparent choice rather than forcing engagement-maximizing loops onto the public.
Social media platforms have long faced intense scrutiny from regulators worldwide over architecture designed to keep users scrolling through sensational or polarizing material.
“A lot of Australians appreciate the algorithm, both for the enjoyment they get out of it or the utility they get out of it,” Anika Wells said.
While the Australia’s opposition leader, Angus Taylor expressed that the Coalition had not seen the Labor government’s bill.
“I am deeply skeptical. I fear that this is going to be an attempt by the government to censor social media, but as I say, we haven’t seen it. Let’s see what the government comes forward with,” he said on the ABC.
The upcoming bill follows Australia's introduction of world-first minimum age restrictions barring children under 16 from holding social media accounts.
Tech platforms face substantial regulatory pressure as Canberra continues its aggressive push to reshape online accountability and user safety standards.
In December, Australia banned under-16s from accessing social media platforms as part of a world-first crackdown designed to protect children from online bullying and “predatory algorithms”.
The United Kingdom, France and others have since followed suit.
Data last month found that Australian children were increasing their use of social media apps, such as Instagram and TikTok, despite the ban.
The proposed legislation would require companies like Meta to undertake what the government calls a digital duty of care as it steps up efforts to tackle online harm.
