📜 Australia's New Push for News Revenue
Australia announced plans to tax major tech platforms like Meta, Google, and ByteDance starting January 2025. Companies earning over $227M USD annually from Australian users must share revenue with news publishers or pay hefty taxes. Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones called the move an "incentive to foster agreements." In 2021, Australia passed the News Media Bargaining Code, which pressured tech giants into sharing revenue. However, Meta recently declined to renew those agreements, prompting the government’s new plan.
💻 Meta and Google React to the Law
Meta and Google criticized the proposal. Meta argued it doesn’t account for how platforms operate, stating users don’t visit for news. Google, which has agreements with over 80 Australian publishers, warned the tax could hurt existing deals. Despite objections, the Australian government aims to make compliance cheaper than the tax. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized this policy is vital for democracy, ensuring public interest journalism thrives.
🎯 Targeting Global Digital Giants
ByteDance, the Chinese owner of TikTok, joined Google and Meta in skepticism. TikTok claimed its platform isn’t news-focused, but it promised to engage in consultations. Australian officials clarified to U.S. counterparts that this isn’t a "normal tax" but a way to uphold existing laws. The new approach underscores a global trend where nations push Big Tech to support journalism amidst falling media revenues.
🌍 Safeguarding Journalism and Democracy
Rowland underscored the urgency of these measures. She argued that Big Tech's dominance disrupts Australia's media landscape, threatening the sustainability of public interest journalism. The policy aims to restore balance by encouraging partnerships between digital platforms and news outlets. With this push, Australia reasserts its commitment to protecting democratic values in the digital age.
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