SYDNEY, Australia — Australia’s government said Sunday that it had dropped plans to fine internet platforms up to 5% of their global revenue for failing to prevent the spread of misinformation online.
The bill was part of a wide-ranging regulatory crackdown by Australia, where leaders have complained that foreign-domiciled tech platforms are overriding the country’s sovereignty, and comes ahead of a federal election due within a year.
The Liberal-National coalition, as well as the Australian Greens and crossbench senators, all opposed the legislation, Sky News reported.
Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young called the government bill a “half-baked option” in remarks televised on Australian Broadcasting Corp. on Sunday.
Industry body DIGI, of which Meta is a member, previously said the proposed regime reinforced an existing anti-misinformation code.
Persons:
Australia —, Michelle Rowland, Rowland, Sarah Hanson, Young
Organizations:
Senate, ”, Labor, Liberal - National coalition, Australian Greens, Sky News, Greens, Australian Broadcasting Corp, Meta
Locations:
SYDNEY, Australia