Australia has introduced new draft legislation that could require major technology companies such as Meta, Google, and TikTok to compensate local news publishers for using their content. The proposed News Bargaining Incentive (NBI), now open for public consultation, aims to address a loophole in current regulations that allows digital platforms to evade their responsibilities, according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Details of the Draft Law
The Albanese government stated that it wants large tech firms to enter into commercial agreements with news publishers as the preferred approach. However, if companies choose not to engage in such deals, they would be subject to a charge equivalent to approximately 2.25 per cent of their Australian revenue. This charge would then be redistributed to the news media sector.
Prime Minister Albanese confirmed that the three organisations currently affected are Meta, Google, and TikTok. He added that the charge could be offset through deals, with a 150 per cent offset for agreements with traditional media and a 170 per cent offset for deals with smaller media organisations. The new rules were developed after extensive consultation with these platforms.
The Independent has contacted Meta, Google, and TikTok for comment on the draft rules.
Support for Journalism
The government is also exploring mechanisms to return any funds collected from the scheme to the news media sector to support journalists. Albanese emphasised that a strong and diverse news sector is essential for a healthy democracy. “Journalists are the lifeblood of Australia’s media sector, playing a vital role in keeping communities informed about the news that matters to them,” he said. “Local news matters to local communities, and these stories can’t be told without Australian journalists.”
The draft legislation is expected to be presented to the Australian parliament during the winter sitting period, likely in July or August. Communications and Sports Minister Anika Wells noted that it has never been more important to ensure journalists are supported to keep Australians updated with accurate news. Financial Services Minister Daniel Mulino added that large digital platforms have a crucial role in providing access to news and should work with news media on mutually beneficial commercial deals.
