US warns Australia's social media algorithm reforms could enable censorship

The United States has formally expressed "serious concerns" about Australia's proposed social media algorithm reforms, warning that some measures could be viewed as "facilitating censorship" and may impact users globally. In a submission to Australia's public consultation, the US Embassy in Canberra criticized potential mandates like forced chronological feeds or opt-in recommendation systems, saying vague definitions of "harm" could encourage over-moderation of protected speech and reduce the reach of certain speakers. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the reforms, part of the draft Digital Duty of Care legislation, as aimed at giving users greater control over their feeds, not expanding government authority, while attending the UN General Assembly.