Australia could make social media algorithms optional and follow UK ban on pornography depicting strangulation

The Australian government is currently considering legislative measures to regulate social media platforms, including a proposal to make algorithms optional for users. Additionally, officials are evaluating a potential ban on pornography depicting strangulation, mirroring recent policy changes implemented in the United Kingdom.

These policy considerations are driven by concerns regarding the influence of digital platforms on public safety. The social services minister has specifically identified social media as a contributing factor in the rising rates of sexual violence among teenagers, prompting the government to explore stricter oversight of online content and platform functionality.