Australia asks tech firms to block US execution broadcast

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 00:33 · Archive

Australian authorities have asked tech companies not to show the firing squad execution of death row inmate Nidal Hasan on their platforms.

Australia's online safety watchdog has written to tech companies asking them not to broadcast the firing squad execution of wheelchair-bound former army officer Nidal Hasan in the United States. Communications Minister Anika Wells said the eSafety commissioner expects platforms to prevent the execution from being shown. Wells also said she met directly with Meta's vice-president and global head of safety to make the point that Australian authorities will work with companies to ensure the execution is not viewable to Australians.

The eSafety commissioner has acknowledged it lacks powers to proactively prevent the broadcast. However, Australian authorities are making preparations to restrict access regardless. Reports suggest US President Donald Trump may not proceed with plans to broadcast the execution, but Australia is taking action in anticipation.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the prospect of livestreaming the execution 'abhorrent'. He said Australia has held a bipartisan position opposing the death penalty and questioned why anyone would want to watch such an event, particularly given the risk of children and families gaining access. US media has reported unease within the Trump administration over the plans amid bipartisan outcry, and the prospect has also caused concern among US allies including Australia.

How it is being reported

• eSafety asks big tech ‘not to show’ US executionAustralia is appealing directly to platforms as authorities scramble to block the firing squad execution of a wheelchair-bound death row inmate in the US.Perth Now · 15 Oct, 00:11
• eSafety asks big tech ‘not to show’ US executionAustralia is appealing directly to platforms as authorities scramble to block the firing squad execution of a wheelchair-bound death row inmate in the US.The West Australian · 15 Oct, 00:11

In this story: Nidal Hasan · Anika Wells · Anthony Albanese · Donald Trump · Pete Hegseth · Australia · Meta · eSafety

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