On 31 March 2023, the Australian Government began work to better understand how algorithms operate on digital platforms and the potential harms they may cause. The initiative aims to explore regulatory options to keep users safe and improve platform transparency. This effort will help inform policies and build expertise to manage the impact of AI-driven algorithms.
Name in original language
Algorithms Research
Initiative overview
On 15 March 2022, the House of Representatives' Select Committee on Social Media and Online Safety (the Committee) tabled its final report on its Inquiry into Social Media and Online Safety (the Inquiry). The Inquiry looked at the use of algorithms on social media platforms and the harms and benefits they give rise to. The Report recommended a review of the use of algorithms by digital platforms, to consider possible regulatory options on algorithms, and the government's capability to address AI and other emerging tech regulation. The Government agreed that it needed to better understand the operation of algorithms on digital platforms, and noted that the DITRDCA and the Department of Home Affairs will progress this work while taking into consideration other relevant work underway across Government.The initiative has the following objective(s):To improve the Australian Government's understanding of the use and harms related to algorithms on digital platforms, and determine if there are regulatory gaps for Government's consideration.
Name of responsible organisation (in English)
Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (DITRDCA)
