Australia Proposes New Rules Giving Users Control Over Social Media Feeds

Australia has proposed new rules that would give social media users greater control over the content shown on their feeds as the government continues its push to improve online safety. The draft legislation, referred to as the “My Feed, My Way” initiative, would require platforms to notify users and offer a choice over their default feed, allowing them to opt into personalized content recommended by algorithms or choose to see posts only from friends and creators they follow.

Under the proposals, platforms would also have to document measures taken to address identified risks of harm to Australian users and ensure those measures remain effective. Failure to comply could result in penalties of up to A$109.2 million ($79 million), with Australia’s eSafety regulator responsible for enforcement. eSafety would also gain powers to require platforms to quickly remove harmful, nudity-related, and illegal content, although free speech advocates have raised concerns about potential censorship.

The proposals follow Australia’s world-first social media ban for children and come amid growing scrutiny of platforms and their recommendation algorithms. The move also comes after increased Australian scrutiny of Roblox, including an urgent government meeting in February over child safety concerns and a court-enforceable undertaking in August requiring additional safety measures and an independent audit.