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Australia Proposes Forcing Social Media Platforms to Make Algorithms Optional

The Australian government has formally introduced legislation requiring technology platforms to proactively mitigate algorithmic risks and banning AI chatbots designed to foster emotional intimacy. The bill shifts the legal burden of online safety directly onto social media and artificial intelligence companies.

Factlen Newsroom· Updated

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The Australian Parliament formally received the Digital Duty of Care Bill on October 28, 2026.From: Australia Tables Digital Duty of Care Bill to Regulate AI Chatbots and Harmful Social Feeds

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The new framework shifts the burden of safety from user reporting to proactive algorithmic design.From: Australia Tables Digital Duty of Care Bill to Regulate AI Chatbots and Harmful Social Feeds ·
Key provisions of the proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation.From: Australia Proposes Forcing Social Media Platforms to Make Algorithms Optional ·
Social media usage among Australian children remained high even after the December 2025 age ban.From: Australia Proposes Forcing Social Media Platforms to Make Algorithms Optional ·
Illustration: The legislation explicitly targets AI chatbots designed to simulate emotional intimacy with users.From: Australia Tables Digital Duty of Care Bill to Regulate AI Chatbots and Harmful Social Feeds ·
Illustration: Tech companies will be required to audit their recommendation engines for systemic risks.From: Australia Tables Digital Duty of Care Bill to Regulate AI Chatbots and Harmful Social Feeds ·

Timeline

October 2026

  1. Australia Tables Digital Duty of Care Bill to Regulate AI Chatbots and Harmful Social Feeds

September 2026

  1. Australia Proposes Forcing Social Media Platforms to Make Algorithms Optional