Greens demand private lawsuits against Big Tech in Australia’s digital duty-of-care overhaul

This week the Albanese government will table its digital duty-of-care package, which would require social-media services such as Meta and X to block pornography, eating-disorder material and misogynistic sites for users under 18 and to provide a “my feed, my way” option that disables algorithmic recommendations. Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young is urging further changes so that any Australian who suffers online harm could sue the responsible tech firm and obtain compensation, arguing that the eSafety Commissioner’s enforcement powers and the proposed $109.2 million fine are insufficient.

She also seeks stricter limits on addictive algorithms and penalties calculated as a share of a company’s worldwide revenue. The Coalition and One Nation have criticised the measures as censorship and have so far refused to negotiate with Labor, leaving the Greens as potential swing votes. Critics note the amendments could clash with the United States, which has warned against digital taxes and fines targeting American tech firms. Communications Minister Anika Wells is slated to address the draft at the National Press Club, while other fiscal measures, including a trust-tax reform, will also be debated.