STORY: The government has criticised social media platforms for not being quick enough to remove violent posts and seeks more oversight over content posted on Meta's Facebook, ByteDance's TikTok and Elon Musk-owned X.

Australia announced on Friday that it would hold a parliamentary inquiry to look into the negative impacts of social media platforms, saying they have significant reach and control over what Australians see online,

The federal government will set up a new parliamentary committee to probe social media, including the news media bargaining code which could force tech giants to pay news publishers for their work. Communications minister Michelle Rowland announced overnight the government’s plan to establish a joint select committee into social media.

Australia has launched a parliamentary inquiry to examine the adverse effects of social media platforms, citing their immense influence on online content with limited accountability. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised concerns about social media’s role in issues like domestic violence and youth radicalization,

The committee will have the power to compel witnesses, including social media company executives, to attend hearings.