Australian government drops misinformation bill

Australia withdraws bill to fine platforms for misinformation, facing criticism from Musk and politicians.

: The Australian government has withdrawn a bill that aimed to fine online platforms up to 5% of global revenue for failing to curb misinformation. This bill, supported by the Labor government, faced significant opposition, including criticism from Elon Musk and Shadow Minister David Coleman. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said there was no viable pathway for the bill through the Senate. The government will now focus on other measures, including AI regulation and deep fake legislation.

The Australian government has decided to withdraw a proposed bill which intended to impose fines of up to 5% of global revenue on online platforms for not curbing misinformation. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland noted the bill would have increased transparency and held tech companies accountable, but it faced roadblocks in the Senate.

Critics, including Elon Musk, who labeled it 'Fascists,' and Shadow Communications Minister David Coleman argued the bill threatened free speech. Coleman described it as a shocking attack on democracy and urged the prime minister to abandon any future versions.

Despite withdrawing the bill, Rowland emphasized the importance of supporting measures for strengthening democratic institutions. The government is now focusing on legislation against deep fakes, truth in political advertising, and AI regulations, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese plans to ban social media for those under 16.

misinformationlegislationdigital media