Australia is considering forcing Meta to pay publishers for news

Australia is considering new regulations to make Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, pay news companies for content. The development follows Meta’s decision to stop compensating Australian news publishers despite a 2021 law that mandates such payments. News Corp Australia’s executive chairman, Michael Miller, urged the government to enforce this law, criticising Meta for abandoning previous agreements and emphasising the need for fair negotiations.

Meta argues that interest in news on its platforms is declining and views its services as free distribution channels for media companies. However, publishers claim that social media platforms profit unfairly from advertising revenue linked to news content. As a consequence, if the government enforces the 2021 law, Meta might restrict news sharing on Facebook in Australia, as it has done in Canada, leading to concerns about increased misinformation.

Miller also highlighted the negative impacts of social media on mental health and called for a regulatory framework to protect Australians. His proposal includes holding tech firms accountable for all content, enforcing competition laws for digital advertising, improving consumer complaint processes, and supporting mental health programs. He suggested barring companies that fail to comply with these rules from operating in Australia. Meta has defended its actions, stating that it respects Australian laws and community standards and has implemented measures to promote online safety and prevent harm.