US Opposes Australia's Plan to Let Users Switch Off Social Media Algorithms
The US embassy in Canberra has submitted a formal objection to Australia's proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation, which would require social media platforms to give users the option to switch off engagement-based algorithmic feeds. US officials said the proposal raised serious concerns about censorship and government control over US-owned businesses operating in Australia.
The proposal connects to a separate Australian government initiative, which we covered earlier this month, to make chronological feeds the default rather than algorithmic sorting. Both are part of a broader push to reduce the influence of engagement-based amplification on what users see. The US opposition introduces a diplomatic dimension to what has until now been a domestic regulatory conversation.
Still at the discussion stage, it would let users opt out of algorithmic sorting in social media apps and AI chatbots, targeting the amplification of divisive content and addictive design features. The bill also includes tighter content restrictions around eating disorders, crime, gender equality, and dangerous stunts.
The element drawing the most scrutiny is a clause that would give Australia's federal communications minister the power to define categories and types of harm covered under the law, which critics say could give the sitting government broad discretion over what content platforms are required to restrict. The document notes that any changes to those harm designations would be subject to parliamentary review and tested for compliance with the country's human rights obligations.
US officials have asked for clarification on how harms will be determined and how restrictions would be enforced on platforms. They have also raised concerns about the potential impact on independent journalists covering sensitive or controversial topics.
Full story: Social Media Today
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