Australia Plans Algorithm Opt-Out Rules

Australia is preparing legislation that would give social media users greater control over algorithmically recommended content. The proposed rules would require social platforms to offer new and existing users a choice over their default feed. Users would be able to opt into personalised algorithmic recommendations or choose a chronological feed containing content from accounts they have explicitly followed. While the proposal is aimed at social media, its wider implications could extend to other consumer platforms that rely heavily on recommendation technology.

The Australian approach differs from existing opt-out tools on many platforms because the choice would be presented more prominently rather than being buried within settings. Users choosing an algorithm-free experience would see content from the people or creators they actively follow rather than material selected through engagement-based recommendations.

The proposal could nevertheless add to an existing debate over how much control users should have over automated recommendations Many platforms have increasingly incorporated AI and machine learning into content algorithms, profile recommendations, safety systems and other parts of the user experience.

Australia is also proposing additional restrictions on potentially addictive features and harmful content across digital services. Regulators would have the power to impose penalties of up to A$200 million (around US$109.2 million) for non-compliance, with further details expected to be established as the legislation develops.