26-6-2023 (SYDNEY) Tech giants, including Facebook, Google, Twitter, TikTok, and podcasting services, could face hefty fines amounting to billions of dollars under proposed Australian laws aimed at combating disinformation. The legislation, described as “mandatory” by a government watchdog, aims to establish enforceable standards in the largely unregulated sector.
If passed, the proposed laws would empower the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) to take action against platforms that fail to prevent the spread of misinformation or disinformation and prevent their monetization. Penalties could reach up to 5 percent of the companies’ annual global turnover, among the highest proposed fines globally.
A spokesperson for the ACMA explained that the legislation, if implemented, would grant the watchdog new powers to compel information from digital platforms, enforce industry codes, and establish industry standards. However, the ACMA would not have the authority to remove or sanction individual posts. Instead, it would focus on holding platforms accountable for neglecting to monitor and combat intentionally false, misleading, and deceptive content that could cause significant harm.
These rules align with legislation anticipated in the European Union, where tech giants could face fines equivalent to a percentage of their annual turnover and potential bans on operating within the bloc.
Australia has been at the forefront of efforts to regulate digital platforms, prompting tech firms to issue threats to withdraw from the Australian market, most of which have remained unfulfilled.
The proposed bill aims to strengthen the existing voluntary Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation, established in 2021 but with limited impact. Several tech giants, including Adobe, Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Redbubble, TikTok, and Twitter, are currently signatories to the voluntary code.
The introduction of these laws follows a surge in misinformation surrounding an upcoming referendum on Indigenous rights in Australia. The referendum will gauge public opinion on whether the constitution should recognize Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and whether an Indigenous consultative body should be established to influence proposed legislation.
The Australian Electoral Commission has reported an increase in online misinformation and abuse related to the referendum process. Election commissioner Tom Rogers expressed concern about the “aggressive” tone of online comments.
The government argues that combatting disinformation is crucial for ensuring online safety and protecting the country’s democracy. Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland emphasized that misinformation and disinformation can sow division, erode trust, and pose threats to public health and safety.
Stakeholders have until August to provide their feedback and perspectives on the proposed legislation, as Australia aims to fortify its efforts in curbing the spread of disinformation in the digital realm.
