Facebook blocks the ability to view or share news for users in Australia. Both users and media companies can’t share news articles and related content on social media. It’s essentially a total block on all news content that is related to Australia.
Facebook blocks Australian news
Australian authorities have been preparing a major regulatory media that seeks to have internet platforms pay media outlets for sharing and using their news stories. In other words, since Facebook makes a profit because users spend time on its news-filled social network, it should pay those who create that news. The social media company doesn’t agree with that, neither does Google.
The bill has already been approved by the Australian House of Representatives and all indications show that there are enough votes secured to win in the Senate as well. If so, Internet platforms will be obliged to pay for content to the media.
In response to this new regulation, Facebook has begun implementing changes, which in this case involves not offering any Australian content to Australians. In fact, even users from other countries will not be able to share content coming from Australian media.
- Australian media: They are not allowed to share or post any content on Facebook pages.
- Australian users: They are not allowed to view or share Australian or international news content.
- International media: Links may not be viewed or shared in Australia.
- International users: They are not allowed to view or share Australian news content.
One of the company’s arguments for not being in favor of this new regulation is how its platform works. It says that if the media places news on social media it is because it benefits them. According to Facebook, unlike Google, which indexes news automatically, on Facebook the media place them voluntarily.
Google, which also thrives on media content, has decided to strike small deals with media companies in Australia. For example, they reached an agreement with News Corp recently.
