Meta Considering Blocking News Content in Australia Due to Licensing Fees: Parliamentary Hearing Update

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is considering blocking news content from appearing on its platform in Australia if the Australian government enforces licensing fees. This decision comes as Meta’s regional policy director, Mia Garlick, stated that all options are currently on the table.

Garlick emphasized that there are numerous channels available for people to access news content, suggesting that Meta may be willing to take a firm stance similar to its approach in Canada in 2023, following the introduction of similar laws there.

Initially, Meta had entered into agreements with Australian media entities such as News Corp and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation when the law was first implemented in Australia. However, the company has since announced that it will not extend these agreements beyond 2024.

The decision now lies with Australia’s assistant treasurer, who will determine whether to intervene and mandate that Facebook compensate news providers. While the assistant treasurer has indicated ongoing deliberation, he has criticized Meta for selectively adhering to legal requirements.

In response to questions about potentially blocking news content on Facebook in Australia to avoid the law, Garlick argued that such action would actually constitute compliance with it. She explained, “Every other law – tax laws, safety laws, privacy laws – we work to comply with. It’s just that compliance would look slightly different in relation to this law if it’s fully enacted.”

With Meta considering this drastic move, the future of news content on the platform in Australia remains uncertain as the company awaits Canberra’s decision on the matter.