Story perspectives

Albanese bill forces platforms to add 16+ feed opt-out

9/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a bill requiring platforms to offer users over 16 an opt-out from feeds.
Companies that fail to provide the option could face fines up to 109.2 million Australian dollars.
Platforms must protect users from eating-disorder, pornographic, misogynistic, criminal, stunt-related and severe mental-health content.
eSafety Commissioner will issue removal notices and require platforms to document harm-mitigation measures.

History

Historical Context

The EU adopted the General Data Protection Regulation on 14 April 2016, which became directly applicable on 25 May 2018 and introduced fines of up to €20 million or 4 % of global turnover. Its “Brussels effect” inspired Australia’s 2024 eSafety Bill, championed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, which sets AUD 109.2 million in penalties for non-compliance.

1 of 2

Story summary

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a bill requiring platforms to offer users over 16 an opt-out from feeds.
Companies that fail to provide the option could face fines up to 109.2 million Australian dollars.
Platforms must protect users from eating-disorder, pornographic, misogynistic, criminal, stunt-related and severe mental-health content.
eSafety Commissioner will issue removal notices and require platforms to document harm-mitigation measures.

1 / 2