WEB DESK: Meta (META.O), the owner of Facebook, has introduced a new tab and is contemplating blocking news content on its platform in Australia if the government mandates licensing fees, a company representative revealed during a parliamentary hearing on Friday.
Mia Garlick, Meta’s regional policy director, stated that “All options are on the table” when questioned about the potential of blocking Australians from sharing news content to evade paying fees.
Garlick mentioned that Meta is awaiting Canberra’s decision on whether to enforce a 2021 law that permits the government to set fees U.S. tech giants must pay media outlets for links.
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These remarks suggest that Meta might adopt the same stringent stance in Australia as it did in Canada in 2023 when similar laws were enacted.
Previously, Meta had reached agreements with Australian media companies, including News Corp (NWSA.O) and the Australian Broadcasting Corp, when the law was implemented. However, Meta has announced it will not renew these agreements beyond 2024.
The decision now lies with Australia’s assistant treasurer, who must determine whether to compel Facebook to pay for news content. The assistant treasurer has indicated that he is still seeking advice but noted that Meta appears to comply with the law only when it aligns with their interests.
