Allegra Spender backs calls for ‘opt-in’ algorithms to curb online misogyny

Community Strong MP Allegra Spender has backed calls for Australia to implement an “opt-in” algorithm amid fears the existing model is contributing to the prevalence of sexual violence among teenagers.

Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek said on Sunday the federal government was looking at opt-out or opt-in features for algorithms as part of efforts to bolster online safety for young people.

“If you set up a social media account as a young boy in Australia today, it takes an average of 23 minutes for you to be fed misogynistic, violent misogynistic content online,” Ms Plibersek said at the time.

“We’re absolutely up for work on algorithms, you know, opting in to those recommender algorithms that are causing so much harm, opting in or opting out.”

Her remarks came days after NSW Police said it was investigating the death of a 16-year-old girl on Sydney’s Northern Beaches after a suspected sexual strangulation act. No arrests have been made.

Ms Spender told ABC Radio National on Wednesday that optional algorithms would make platforms safer for “all Australians”.

“We’ve seen that ASIO has cited that just 10 minutes engaging with incel material leads recommendation systems to suggest increasingly violent misogynistic content,” the Wentworth MP said.

“That’s coming from our security agencies. So what we see is that the algorithms, as they are, currently running in certain circumstances can serve content that has real damaging effects potentially across our community.

“And so I think creating an opt-in for people to make the default of social media safer and to give people really active choice in relation to social media makes a lot of sense.”

Teach Us Consent founder Chanel Contos is slated to address the National Press Club on Wednesday.

In her speech, Ms Contos will argue opt-in algorithms would “fundamentally make the transition onto social media for 16-year-olds and other children safer”.

“It would bring the principle of affirmative consent to our screens,” Ms Contos will say.

“This is crucial, and the detail in any reform will determine its success – as will be the overall strength of the proposed Digital Duty of Care reforms that are needed in their own right.

“It is too easy for Big Tech to design schemes that appear as structural reform but actually suit them just fine.”