Facebook unblocks news - 1st March 2021

Last week, Facebook blocked Australian users from sharing or viewing news content on the platform. This made people worried about how the public can access important information.

This unpopular move was made in response to a planned law. Under the new law, Facebook and Google would have to pay for news content in Australia.

The law aims to make things more equal between the tech companies and Australian media companies. Facebook, Google and news publishers all rely on income from advertising. However, Google and Facebook receive 81 per cent of the money which is spent on advertising in Australia.

Google and Facebook say the law does not reflect how the internet works. However, Google quickly made deals with three major Australian media companies.

Facebook opted to stop allowing news content on its services in Australia. Those outside the country were also unable to read or access any Australian news publications through Facebook.

Australian Facebook users reacted furiously to the ban. Many Australians depend on Facebook to receive emergency updates about the pandemic and national disaster situations.

Australia's government stood by the law. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said: "We will legislate this code. We want the digital giants paying traditional news media businesses."

Facebook has now backed down and lifted its block on news.