The United States has formally objected to Australia’s proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation, warning that the plan could restrict free expression and give the Australian government excessive control over American tech companies. The U.S. embassy in Canberra submitted a letter outlining these concerns, according to the BBC.
What the Proposed Law Would Do
Australia’s proposal would require social media platforms to let users disable engagement-based algorithms, aiming to reduce exposure to divisive or harmful content. The bill also targets addictive design features in social apps and AI chatbots, while introducing stricter rules around content tied to eating disorders, crime, gender equality, and dangerous stunts.
US Concerns Over Censorship Powers
American officials say their objection centers on a provision that would let Australia’s communications minister define which content categories count as “harmful.” Critics argue this could allow the sitting government to selectively restrict content it disagrees with, potentially harming independent journalists covering sensitive topics. Australian officials counter that any such rule changes would face parliamentary review and must comply with the country’s human rights obligations, including protections for free speech.
The pushback comes as the proposal remains in its discussion phase, with no final structure yet agreed upon. Some observers note the timing aligns with broader criticism from conservative media outlets opposed to the bill, even though its stated purpose is addressing content already linked to documented harms. The debate also highlights how algorithmic amplification can reward controversial or divisive content simply because it drives higher engagement, raising the stakes for how any future regulation defines “harm” versus legitimate discourse.
A final version of the bill is not expected for some time.