Australia announced a new measure that obliges social media platforms to provide users with the option to "switch off" recommendation algorithms. This legislation requires platforms to allow users to access a content feed ordered chronologically, without interference from automated systems.
This measure comes following another restriction previously approved in Australia, which prohibits access to social media for under-16s. The Australian government states that this approach is similar to that proposed by the European Union in digital regulation matters.
The Australian government defended the reform as being "sensible and practical", considering that it gives users greater control over their experience on digital platforms without imposing overly severe restrictions.
However, the Australian opposition contested the measure, accusing it of representing a form of "censorship to freedom of expression", questioning the balance between regulation and fundamental rights in the digital space.
