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The Albanese government outlined its My Feed, My Way initiative in a statement released on Tuesday, compelling social media services to notify both new and existing users of their right to choose between an algorithmic default feed and one limited to accounts they follow. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the measure as sensible, pragmatic and practical reform that shifts power toward individuals while requiring platforms to document steps taken against identified risks of harm. The announcement builds directly on the country’s earlier world-first prohibition on social media access for those under 16.
Communications Minister Anika Wells told national broadcaster ABC that many Australians appreciate algorithms for enjoyment or utility yet should still be offered the choice to turn them off, with platforms facing substantial penalties for failing to comply. A government release distributed on Tuesday set the maximum fine at 109.2 million Australian dollars and assigned enforcement responsibilities to the eSafety Commissioner. The draft legislation additionally tasks platforms with actively mitigating harms such as illegal pornography, content promoting disordered eating and misogynistic material targeting young people.
A BBC video report captured reactions from Australians on the street under the headline ‘Good to have choice’, reflecting widespread sentiment that the proposed opt-out would hand users greater autonomy over daily scrolling habits. Interviewees welcomed the prospect of bypassing personalised recommendations that can rapidly surface extreme or addictive content. The coverage illustrated how the policy has resonated with ordinary citizens concerned about platform influence on what appears in their feeds.
The reforms respond to campaigns including Fix Our Feeds, which have highlighted how recommender systems can expose young men to misogynistic material within minutes, according to statements compiled by The Sydney Morning Herald. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor told multiple outlets he remained highly sceptical, warning the changes could amount to government censorship of social media. Wells rejected that characterisation in interviews with ABC and Channel Nine, insisting the laws focus on risk identification and mitigation rather than content control by authorities.
Reuters reporting on the proposal noted that the measures deepen a global pattern of regulatory pressure on technology companies, following European Union adjustments that prompted some platforms to alter default recommendation settings. The Australian draft remains open for targeted consultation with industry, civil society and advocates before full introduction to parliament later this year. Government statements emphasised that users who opt out would still access followed content, preserving core platform functionality while addressing documented safety gaps.
