Proposed legislation in Australia could impose hefty fines on major technology companies for their inadequate handling of disinformation, according to a new report from a regulatory body. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) indicated on Monday that the legislation aims to establish “mandatory” standards for a sector that currently operates with minimal oversight.
If the bill is enacted, platforms such as Facebook, Google, Twitter, TikTok, and various podcast services could face financial penalties amounting to up to five percent of their annual global revenue, which would rank among the highest fine thresholds proposed worldwide.
The ACMA would be empowered to enforce measures requiring these companies to actively prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation, as well as to prohibit the monetization of such harmful content.
A spokesperson for the agency noted, “The legislation, if approved, would equip the ACMA with new powers to compel information from digital platforms, register and uphold mandatory industry codes, and establish industry standards.”
While the agency would not have the authority to remove or sanction individual posts, it could penalize platforms that fail to monitor or combat content deemed intentionally “false, misleading, and deceptive” that poses a risk of “serious harm.”
This initiative mirrors anticipated regulations in the European Union, where tech giants could incur fines of up to six percent of their annual revenue, along with potential bans on operations within the EU.
Australia continues to lead the charge in regulating digital platforms, prompting tech companies to issue threats—largely unfulfilled—to withdraw from the Australian market over regulatory concerns.
The new bill aims to enhance the existing voluntary Australian Code of Practice on Disinformation and Misinformation, introduced in 2021 but which has seen limited impact.
Prominent tech firms, including Adobe, Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Redbubble, TikTok, and Twitter, currently adhere to the existing code.
The announcement of the proposed laws comes against a backdrop of rising misinformation in Australia surrounding an upcoming referendum on Indigenous rights.
Voters will consider whether the constitution should formally recognize Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and whether a consultative body representing Indigenous interests should be established to advise on proposed legislation.
The Australian Electoral Commission reported a noticeable increase in misleading information and online harassment related to the referendum process.
Election Commissioner Tom Rogers noted that online discourse had become increasingly “aggressive” in tone, as reported by local media on Thursday.
The government emphasizes that addressing disinformation is crucial for ensuring online safety and protecting democratic integrity in Australia.
“Misinformation and disinformation create division within communities, erode trust, and can jeopardize public health and safety,” remarked Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland on Sunday.
Stakeholders and the public are invited to submit their feedback on the legislation until August.
