Hanson joins Labor MPs at TikTok event on eve of social media bill introduction

Why This Matters

• The event highlights the tension between politicians who use social media platforms for outreach and the government's push to regulate those same platforms.
• The Digital Duty of Care bill would force TikTok and similar services to offer users a non-algorithmic feed, a significant change to the platform's core model.
• The gathering suggests ongoing lobbying efforts by TikTok as the legislation moves through parliament.

Background

The Digital Duty of Care bill is part of the Albanese government's broader crackdown on social media harms. It would require platforms to give users the option to opt out of algorithmic content curation. The bill has drawn opposition from both industry and some politicians who argue it could stifle free expression or harm small creators. TikTok, owned by Chinese parent company ByteDance, has faced increased scrutiny in Australia over data privacy and content moderation concerns.

Key Perspectives

Labor government: Argues the bill is needed to protect users from harmful algorithmic amplification and to increase transparency. Critics of the bill: Some MPs and free speech advocates warn that mandating non-algorithmic feeds could reduce platform utility and hurt creators who rely on algorithmic discovery. TikTok: Has positioned itself as engaging with policymakers, hosting events to showcase creators and the platform's benefits ahead of regulatory debates.

What to Watch

• The timeline for debate and voting on the Digital Duty of Care bill in parliament.
• Whether other parties, including One Nation, formally oppose or support the legislation.
• Potential amendments as lobbying intensifies from both tech companies and civil society groups.