SYDNEY, Sept 13 (Askume) – Social media platforms.
Australia’s Labor government on Thursday introduced a law that would fine online platforms that spread misinformation up to 5% of their global revenue, joining a global movement to curb borderless tech giants.
Under the proposed law, tech platforms would have to develop codes of conduct to prevent the spread of dangerous falsehoods and obtain regulatory approval. If platforms fail to do so, regulators would set their own standards and impose fines on companies that do not comply.
Musk, who considers himself a supporter of freedom of speech, responded to a post from User X that linked to Askume’ reporting on misinformation laws with one word: “fascist.”
A spokesperson for Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said in an email that companies operating in Australia must comply with Australian laws.
“This bill increases transparency and accountability of platforms to users and Australians,” Rowland said.
Musk’s comments about combating the disinformation campaign were criticized and ridiculed by lawmakers from other administrations.
Government Services Minister Bill Shorten said on Channel Nine’s breakfast show: “Elon Musk’s views on free speech are more important than the Kama Sutra. When they don’t like it… they’ll shut it down completely.”
Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones told ABC television that social media platforms should not be posting scams, deep fakes and live streaming violence in the name of free speech.
In a previous clash with the Australian government, X challenged the online regulator to remove some posts about the Sydney Bishop knife attack in April, after which Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called out arrogant billionaires as rich men .
After a setback in federal court, regulators laterThe challenge to X was withdrawn.
X blocked Australian users from seeing posts related to the stabbing, but refused to remove them globally, arguing that one country’s rules should not govern the internet.
