U.S. Embassy Warns Australia’s Algorithm Opt-Out Law Is Censorship
The U.S. Embassy in Canberra has formally warned that Australia’s proposed 'digital duty of care' legislation constitutes censorship, arguing it would restrict the reach of American content and journalists. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rejected the criticism, stating the reforms aim to give users control over algorithmic feeds rather than impose government censorship. Australian MPs from Labor and the Greens condemned the U.S. intervention as unprecedented foreign interference, while the Coalition criticized the bill for vague definitions of harm and excessive ministerial power. The dispute highlights a growing trans-Pacific friction over the regulation of U.S.-based tech giants, with Australia insisting its national interest supersedes U.S. commercial concerns.
