Facebook Deal With Australian Publishers After News Ban

In a developing story, Facebook and Australian news publishers appear to have reached an agreement regarding Australia’s new legislation after Facebook placed a block on all users sharing news stories in the region. 

Recently, Australia’s proposed new Media Bargaining law moved Facebook to announce restrictions on Australian publishers and people from sharing and viewing news content on its platform. The proposed law would have forced tech companies, such as Google and Facebook, to pay publishers for news content, and risk arbitration if no agreement could be reached. 

While Google initially objected to the law, it dropped its objections last week. Meanwhile, Facebook moved to disallow any kind of Australian news content on its platform, creating a loud outcry in response. But as of this morning, has settled on an agreement with Australia. 

William Easton, Facebook's managing director for Australia and New Zealand, said, "We are satisfied that the Australian government has agreed to a number of changes and guarantees that address our core concerns about allowing commercial deals that recognize the value our platform provides to publishers relative to the value we receive from them.” 

While the events in Australia might not affect all brands, they point to a current trend in legislation as it relates to technology companies. The relationship between technology and laws, especially as it pertains to businesses and brands, is an ever-changing one that continues to intensify.  

At Investis Digital, we’re staying up to date with how technology and governments are interacting and are always ready to help advise on how best to adapt or shift your strategy to remain both compliant and effective. To learn more about how upcoming and current legislation might be affecting your digital communications strategy, get in touch today.