Australia Considers Making Social Media Algorithms Optional

The Australian government is considering legislation that would make social media algorithms optional, allowing users to opt in or out of recommender systems. Tanya Plibersek, the Social Services Minister, stated that these algorithms deliberately feed violent and misogynistic content to young men, which she claims normalizes sexual strangulation.

This policy shift follows the death of a 16-year-old girl in Sydney from suspected sexual asphyxiation. In response, the government is developing its second action plan to end family and domestic violence and is reviewing a United Kingdom ban on pornography depicting strangulation and suffocation.

Beyond algorithm controls, the government plans to consult on a digital duty of care bill to hold AI and tech companies accountable for user safety. Officials are also reviewing privacy legislation to address the use of camera-equipped smartglasses for non-consensual filming.