“Australia wants social media platforms to allow users to exit algorithm-driven information streams”

On September 8, 2026, the Australian Labor Party government introduced a bill called “My Feed, My Way,” aimed at giving social media users the right to choose what information they want to see. The bill requires platforms to inform users of their default settings and allow them to decide whether to accept algorithm-based recommendations; if users choose to reject algorithm recommendations, they can only view content that they follow. Companies that violate these rules may face fines of up to 109.2 million Australian dollars. eSafety will be responsible for overseeing enforcement and will have new law enforcement powers to remove harmful content. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that the bill aims to give users control over their information, and large tech companies will be held accountable if they do not comply. This reform draws inspiration from the EU’s Digital Services Act and is expected to be submitted to parliament for consideration this year to address algorithmic addiction and cybersecurity risks.