The Albanese Government has released draft legislation for the Digital Duty of Care, building on its world-leading social media age ban to give Australians greater control over their online experience. Central to the proposal is the “My Feed, My Way” initiative, requiring social media platforms to notify users — new and existing — about their option to opt in or out of algorithmically recommended content in their default feed. Users can choose to see only content from friends and creators they follow, or opt in for personalised recommendations.

The laws extend beyond social media to cover online games, apps, and AI chatbots, mandating protection for under-18s from harmful design features (e.g., addictive mechanics) and dangerous content including eating disorder promotion, gender-based hostility, pornography, crime glorification, and material causing serious mental health distress such as bullying and abuse. e Safety will gain authority to issue removal notices for nudify apps and streamline cyber-abuse responses. Non-compliance could result in penalties of up to $109.2 million, enforced by the independent e Safety Commissioner. The government is consulting with digital platforms, industry bodies, civil society groups, and advocates, with legislation expected to be introduced to Parliament this year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the reforms are about “giving people control,” not government overreach, while Minister for Communications Anika Wells compared the duty of care to safety standards for cars, toys, and food, emphasizing that platforms — including some of the world’s most powerful companies — must step up to protect Australians online.