Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has rejected concerns that Communications Minister Anika Wells could have too much power under the government’s proposed Digital Duty of Care legislation.

Nationals leader Matt Canavan has criticised the proposed framework, arguing that it could give the government excessive influence over what Australians see online.

Speaking on the Today Show, Albanese said the proposed rule changes would be disallowable, meaning Parliament would have the power to reject them. He said Canavan was being “disingenuous” in suggesting the minister would have unchecked authority.

“The eSafety commissioner will of course provide the advice, but Matt Canavan actually knows that he’s being disingenuous because all of these things will be disallowable,” Albanese said.

Under the proposed Digital Duty of Care framework, platforms would be required to address specified online risks, including protections for children and measures to ensure adults are not shown illegal content. The government has also proposed giving Australians a choice between algorithmically recommended feeds and content from accounts they follow.

Wells has said the legislation is focused on online safety standards rather than political censorship or misinformation. The government says the proposed rules are intended to make large online platforms identify and mitigate risks on their services.

The debate comes as the government consults on its exposure draft, with the Coalition raising concerns about ministerial powers and the potential impact on free expression.

Sources: The Guardian / Australian Government