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Albanese government forces social media algorithm opt-outs

The government plans to require social media platforms to offer users a choice between algorithm-recommended content or reverse chronological feeds.

The Albanese government announced on Tuesday plans to make social media platforms give users a choice. Users could pick algorithm-recommended content or a reverse chronological feed showing only posts from accounts they follow.

Instagram chief executive Adam Mosseri warned this would hurt the user experience. People would see too much brand content, he said.

Companies and creators post far more often than friends. This means engagement and satisfaction would drop.

Overall reach would shrink. The government also plans other steps to address online harm on the platforms.

Why it mattersUsers could soon gain control over how social media platforms show them content. But platforms say this choice has downsides.

AustraliaAustralian Instagram users would be prompted to choose their feed style if the policy passes, potentially seeing less from friends and influencers.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 d ago

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✓ The Sydney Morning HeraldPower & Policy

Albanese government pushes social media bill with algorithm opt-out and content

The Albanese government's bill would let users turn off recommendation algorithms. It would also give ministers power to block harmful online content.

Why it mattersThe bill raises real free-speech concerns. It tries to protect people from extreme content. These goals clash. This clash will shape how Australians use social media.