Australia Moves to Empower Users Against Big Tech's Manipulative Algorithms
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The Australian government is taking a stand against the unchecked power of social media giants by proposing legislation that would force platforms to let users over 16 reject manipulative algorithmic feeds in favor of chronological content, with steep penalties for non-compliance.
Australia's government has unveiled a draft bill aimed at curbing the exploitative practices of profit-driven social media corporations. The legislation would require platforms to give users aged 16 and older the right to disable algorithm-driven feeds—tools often used by Big Tech to maximize engagement and ad revenue at the expense of users’ mental health—and instead view content only from accounts they choose to follow. The proposal, called “My Feed, My Way,” also compels platforms to clearly inform both new and existing users about the default feed setting, ensuring transparency and user autonomy. Non-compliant companies could face fines up to 109.2 million Australian dollars (about 79 million US dollars), a necessary deterrent against corporate irresponsibility.
The bill’s scope extends to AI chatbots, online games, and other digital services, demanding that they address features designed to be addictive for users under 18—a crucial measure to protect young people from the predatory tactics of tech conglomerates.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized, “This is not about giving government control. It's about giving people control. It's about putting choice back into the hands of Australians online,” highlighting the government’s commitment to restoring power to the people, not corporations.
He added, “This is sensible, pragmatic, practical reform. It gives users choice, and it will hold the big tech companies responsible for inaction,” underscoring the urgent need to hold unaccountable tech giants to higher standards.
While some platforms already offer limited options to escape algorithmic manipulation—such as TikTok’s Friends tab, Facebook’s friends-only feed, Instagram’s Following and Favorites feeds, YouTube’s Subscriptions feed, and Snapchat’s separation of friends’ Stories from public discovery—these are often buried or hard to access, illustrating the reluctance of tech companies to relinquish control.
Australia previously introduced a ban on social media for users under 16, a progressive measure that other countries are considering. However, recent data from the eSafety Commissioner revealed that the ban had little impact on overall teen usage rates, highlighting the need for stronger, more enforceable action against the tech industry’s harmful influence.