Australia proposes ‘opt out’ legislation
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Australia’s Labor government has introduced a draft Digital Duty of Care bill that would let users opt out of algorithm‑driven feeds on platforms such as Meta, TikTok, and Snap. The legislation would require platforms to notify users of the option and could impose penalties of up to A$109.2 million for non‑compliance. The move follows the country’s 2023 ban on users under 16 and aligns with global regulatory trends targeting addictive design. Meta declined to comment, while TikTok and Snap have yet to respond. The bill also extends protections to digital services that may harm users under 18.
💡 Why It Matters
- · By granting users direct control over personalization, the law could reshape how platforms engineer engagement, potentially curbing addictive features that disproportionately affect younger audiences.