Archive · 8 Sep 2026
Australia Wants New Rules to Limit Big Tech Algorithms
Australia wants to create new safety rules for online services.
The government is concerned that technology companies’ algorithms have too much control over what people see.
It says online products should follow basic safety standards, similar to cars, toys and food.
The proposed rules would apply to more than social media.
They could also cover chatbots, games, apps and messaging services.
A major goal is protecting children from harmful content and features.
The government also wants parents to have better tools for online safety.
Communications Minister Anika Wells described this as a duty of care for online products.
Australia is seeking new social media rules to reduce the influence of Big Tech algorithms.
Communications Minister Anika Wells said online services should meet basic safety standards.
The proposed duty of care would cover social media, chatbots, gaming platforms, apps and messaging platforms.
The measures aim to protect children from harmful content and features online.
The rules would also give parents tools to help keep their families safe online.
- Who
- The Australian government and Communications Minister Anika Wells.
- What
- Australia wants new online safety rules addressing Big Tech algorithms and requiring a duty of care.
- When
- Not specified in the provided article.
- Where
- Australia and the online services used there.
- Why
- To protect children from harmful content and features and give parents tools to improve family online safety.
- Country
- Australia
- Government official
- Anika Wells, Minister for Communications
- Main proposal
- New social media and online safety rules
- Safety approach
- A duty of care for online products
- Platforms mentioned
- Social media, chatbots, gaming platforms, apps and messaging platforms
- Primary concern
- Children’s exposure to harmful content and features
- Parent support
- Tools to help families stay safe online