Australia is proposing new legislation that would require social media platforms to let users opt out of algorithm-driven content. Labor says Australians would be offered a choice between the current algorithmic “feed” and a non-algorithmic option that prioritizes following or seeing content from accounts a user chooses. The move is positioned as part of a broader digital duty of care framework.

The draft laws are also linked to child online safety goals. Sources describe efforts to strengthen protections—particularly after Australia introduced a ban on social media for minors. One focus is limiting children’s exposure to harmful content, including material such as misogynistic or eating-disorder content. The proposals would impose significant penalties on platforms that do not comply, with figures cited of more than A$100 million.

Across outlets, there is also emphasis on how the proposal could be implemented in practice. Reporting notes platforms would likely face obligations to present recurring opt-out prompts. Opposition lawmakers and some commentators raise concerns that the measures could amount to government censorship, and some coverage highlights uncertainty about whether companies would fully comply even if the bill passes.