Technology
Australia proposes algorithmic feed choice and digital duty of care
Australia’s government released draft Digital Duty of Care legislation for targeted consultation, proposing that social platforms offer users a choice between personalized recommendations and feeds of accounts they follow. The proposal also covers harmful content and design features affecting under-18s across services including games, apps and AI chatbots. The government says breaches could attract penalties up to $109.2 million, enforced by eSafety. These are proposed obligations: legislation is intended for introduction to Parliament this year.
Editorial summary · Publisher article
What matters
- Platforms would notify new and existing users about their default-feed choices; the minister describes the choice as applying to users over 16.
- Services would document risk-reduction measures and check their continuing effectiveness.
- The draft would empower eSafety to issue removal notices for nudify apps or websites.
Context & caveats
- The packet presents the government’s account of the draft, without independent legal analysis or stakeholder responses.
Why this made the edition
Detailed primary government announcement specifies proposed feed controls, service obligations, enforcement and legislative status.
Source material