2019 digital platforms inquiry reports have found that in Australia, Google and Facebook have been taking a major share of online advertising revenue even when they aren’t sharing any original content but re sharing or reusing the already existing content that various media organisations produce. The reports suggested various recommendations our of which one is for these companies to pay news media for the content they re-use on their platforms.
A code of conduct will be created for Facebook & Google by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, as asked by the Australian Government. The government wants to force the giants to pay Australian media companies for using their content.
The Commission maintains that it was developing a voluntary code of conduct already as part of a series of recommendations from 2019 digital platforms inquiry but it is unlikely that they can make a voluntary agreement on payment for content.
ACCC will be releasing a mandatory code according to which there will be penalties for defaulters and it will also define what content will be included that needs to be paid for by the tech giants. The final draft will be available by the end of July. Visit this website to more about this news.
Managing Director of Facebook Australia and New Zealand, Will Easton, has released a statement mentioning the disappointment on Australian government’s announcement. He writes that Facebook has invested millions of dollars to support Australian publishers through content arrangements, partnerships, and training during these vulnerable times.
Facebook has pledged $100 million to invest in the news industry. Google also released a statement stating that they are working constructively with industry, the ACCC and government to develop a Code of Conduct and they will continue to do so in the revised process set out by the government.
Ajeta Sinha
Ajeta is passionate for excellence with commitment towards work. She founded BO Herald with an aim to create a cutting-edge online platform for readers who seek unlimited access to quality news pieces. She jots down articles for Economy section.
