Australia's algorithm opt-out laws set to pass after Labor concession

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 17:54 · Archive

Australia's parliament is expected to pass laws allowing citizens to opt out of social media algorithms after Labor removed a contentious ministerial veto power.

Laws allowing Australians to opt out of social media algorithms are set to pass after Labor dropped a controversial clause that would have granted ministerial power to ban certain content. The digital duty of care bill is among legislation the government hopes to pass as parliament resumes sitting from Monday.

The bill will require social media companies to ensure under-18s aren't exposed to harmful content such as pornography, bullying and material that glorifies crime. The coalition had labelled the bill political censorship, while newly-elected Greens leader David Shoebridge opposed granting ministerial discretion to proscribe additional harms.

Labor confirmed on Sunday that the minister's discretion had been removed and only parliament would be able to add banned content to the legislation. The government remains hopeful of winning coalition support. The Greens are unlikely to resist now their main obstacle has been cleared, with a party source telling AAP while speaking on condition of anonymity that the party was very keen to get the bill passed, though they would not guarantee support until seeing the final legislation.

How it is being reported

• Algorithm changes set to pass after Labor backdownHorse-trading over social media legislation and a visit from Middle Eastern royalty are on the agenda as federal politicians return to Canberra.The West Australian · 11 Oct, 17:31
• Algorithm changes set to pass after Labor backdownHorse-trading over social media legislation and a visit from Middle Eastern royalty are on the agenda as federal politicians return to Canberra.Perth Now · 11 Oct, 17:31

In this story: Labor · Greens · David Shoebridge · Tony Burke · Australia · Canberra

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