Australia Proposes New Law Allowing Users to Turn Off Social Media Algorithms

2026-09-08 global

Canberra, Tuesday, 8 September 2026.
Australia has introduced draft legislation forcing tech companies to let users disable recommendation algorithms, threatening non-compliant platforms with fines of up to 109.2 million Australian dollars.

The My Feed, My Way Initiative

On September 7, 2026, the Australian government released draft legislation known as the Digital Duty of Care, which includes the “My Feed, My Way” initiative [7]. This regulatory framework mandates that major social media platforms provide users over the age of 16 with the option to disable algorithmic recommendation feeds [1]. Instead of content curated by artificial intelligence, users may choose a chronological feed consisting strictly of accounts they follow [1]. The legislation targets digital service providers including social media platforms, online games, messaging apps, and AI chatbots [7]. Non-compliance with these new digital duty of care standards could result in penalties reaching up to $109.2 million AUD [7]. The government intends to introduce the bill to Parliament before December 31, 2026, following a period of targeted consultation [7][8].

Digital Duty of Care and Safety Standards

Beyond algorithmic control, the proposed laws require platforms to identify and manage risks related to harmful content [6]. Specific protections are mandated for users under 18, shielding them from addictive design features, pornography, content promoting disordered eating, misogyny, and cyberbullying [6][8]. The eSafety Commissioner will be empowered to issue removal notices for harmful applications, including so-called “nudify” apps, and to streamline existing cyber abuse schemes [6]. Digital service providers must perform regular risk assessments on all reasonably foreseeable risks and submit results to the eSafety Commissioner within 30 days upon request [6]. This legislation builds upon previous safety measures, distinct from the Online Safety Amendment which focused on enforcing the under-16 social media ban implemented in December 2025 [4].

Political and Industry Reactions

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the reforms are about giving people control rather than government control over online experiences [1][7]. Communications Minister Anika Wells described the move as a “global reckoning for big tech,” noting that basic safety standards should apply to online products just as they do for cars or food [1][6]. However, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor expressed deep skepticism, characterizing the proposal as a potential attempt by the government to censor social media [5][6]. Conversely, consent advocate Chanel Contos argued that the reform sends the right message to Big Tech regarding consent for digital features [1]. Industry representatives from DIGI, a lobby group representing Meta, Snapchat, and Google, indicated they welcome discussion on the role of recommender systems in online safety [1].

Enforcement Timeline and Context

The draft legislation comes amid ongoing scrutiny of tech platforms following the December 2025 implementation of age restrictions for social media users [5]. Research published on June 24, 2026, indicated that previous systems for children were only partly effective, with over 85% of children continuing to use restricted platforms three months after the law took effect [1][6]. Prime Minister Albanese is scheduled to present these plans at the United Nations General Assembly in New York later in September 2026 [1]. The government expects to finalize the legislation pending public inquiry and negotiations, with the aim of establishing a legal precedent that international executives and investors are watching closely [1].

Sources

Tech Regulation Social Media