Australia’s Social Media Algorithm Rules Could Give Users More Control

Australia’s rules have not yet been finalized, but the government says follow-only feeds must not be difficult to use or less functional. Algorithm settings must be “obvious” and cannot be changed without a user’s “explicit choice” — even if they leave the app.

Campaign for Algorithm Choice Goes Global

Encouraged by her success in Australia, Kontos is now taking her campaign globally.

“It feels like Canada, the UK and Australia are very aligned when it comes to online safety…and if those three jurisdictions are doing that, that could be a critical mass,” she said.

Young People Question Whether the Reforms Will Work

Although experiences like theirs have inspired these reforms, both Flynn and Varsha are somewhat skeptical of them.

Varsha says she cannot believe a country like Australia can beat big tech companies and is not sure the Digital Duty of Care Bill will work. Flynn said lawmakers should be “realistic” about the possibility of an algorithm switch.

“At the end of the day, we use social media as a form of entertainment,” Flynn said.

A poll earlier this month showed that two-thirds of fellow Gen Zers would keep their social media algorithms in check, but almost half of Australians believe they would generally turn them off.

Varsha admits she is unlikely to make much use of switching algorithms, but she is grateful to have the option.

“On a bad day, I’m still as susceptible to everything as I was when I was 17. Knowing that I can opt out if I’m having a bad day really makes me feel better.”

If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please speak with your health care professional or organization that provides support. Details of organizations providing advice and support to people in the UK are available from BBC Action Line.