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Australia Plans Charges for Big Tech Over Unpaid News Content

Leave a Comment / By / Media Entertainment & Art Community

Australia’s government announced plans on Thursday to introduce new regulations compelling major tech companies like Meta (Facebook’s parent company) and Google to pay Australian media outlets for news content shared on their platforms. The proposed rules aim to create financial penalties for companies failing to negotiate fair compensation with news publishers, marking another step in Australia’s intensified scrutiny of Big Tech. Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones outlined the initiative during a press conference. He explained that the regulations would apply to digital platforms generating over $250 million in Australian revenue, targeting significant social media networks and search engines. Platforms that fail to establish voluntary commercial agreements with media outlets may face charges amounting to millions of dollars. “The news bargaining initiative will provide a strong incentive for platforms and media businesses to strike commercial deals,” Jones stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fair revenue-sharing practices. Tech companies have criticized the proposed legislation. A Meta spokesperson argued the move disregards platform dynamics, pointing out that most users do not access their platforms for news and that publishers willingly post content to benefit from increased exposure. Similarly, a Google representative warned that the policy could jeopardize existing commercial agreements with news publishers in Australia. Australia’s tough stance on Big Tech is not new. In 2021, it enacted laws requiring platforms to pay for news links, prompting Meta to temporarily block news sharing before reaching deals with several Australian media firms. However, Meta has since scaled back news-related initiatives globally, including plans to discontinue its Facebook news tab in Australia by 2024. Media groups, including Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp, have welcomed the government’s latest proposal. News Corp Australia Executive Chairman Michael Miller expressed optimism about building beneficial partnerships with platforms like Meta and TikTok, calling for mutually advantageous relationships between publishers and tech companies.

I&B Minister Warns Big Tech: Address Fake News or Risk Losing ‘Safe Harbour’ Protection

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Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw issued a stern warning to Big Tech companies on National Press Day, urging them to take stronger measures against fake news and algorithmic biases. Speaking at a Press Council of India event in Delhi, the minister highlighted four critical challenges impacting the news media: misinformation, AI-generated content, algorithmic manipulation, and unfair compensation for traditional media. Vaishnaw called out digital platforms for failing to verify information, leading to the unchecked spread of fake news, which he described as a “threat to democracy.” He suggested revisiting the Safe Harbour clause under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000, which currently grants immunity to platforms like Meta and X for user-generated content. The minister argued that the provision, formulated in the 1990s, is outdated given the vast influence of today’s digital platforms. “In a country as diverse as India, misinformation and algorithmic bias pose significant societal risks. Platforms must take greater responsibility to align their operations with our sensitivities,” he said. On algorithmic bias, Vaishnaw criticised platforms for amplifying sensational content to boost engagement, often at the cost of social harmony. He advocated for ethical solutions that prioritize responsible dissemination of information. The minister also addressed the economic disparity between traditional and digital media, urging Big Tech to ensure fair compensation for conventional media outlets that create original content. Highlighting the risks of artificial intelligence, Vaishnaw raised ethical concerns over AI-generated content and its impact on creators’ rights and recognition. He called for open debates and collaborative efforts to address these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for accountability and fairness in digital media governance. The speech underscored the government’s growing focus on regulating Big Tech and safeguarding democratic values in the digital era. Source: Indiatvnews Photo Credit: Indiatvnews

Dheepan Thangavelu, Vice Chairman, Sri Shakthi International School expressed upon the importance of traditional education

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“Our higher educational institutions leverage digital platforms, particularly in computer science training programs, enabling students to develop skills through practical applications” Said Dheepan Thangavelu Can you provide more information about the Shakthi Group of Institutions? Certainly! The Shakthi Group of Institutions began as a higher educational institution with our campus located in Nambur Engineering College, catering to around 5,000 students. In 2017, we expanded by establishing a CBSE school campus in Avinashi. Currently, we also operate five play schools as part of our network. From kindergarten to doctoral programs, we offer a comprehensive educational journey under the banner of Shakthi. How is your institution adapting to the transformation of education into a more digital format, and what benefits have you observed? While digital education is beneficial for higher education, we maintain a focus on traditional methods for our schools. Our higher educational institutions leverage digital platforms, particularly in computer science training programs, enabling students to develop skills through practical applications. However, we believe in a gradual introduction to digital learning, especially for younger students. What sustainable education modules is your institution implementing, and what initiatives have been successful so far? We prioritize sustainability education, including initiatives such as water conservation and environmental preservation. Our campus boasts eco-friendly features, including a 25-acre campus with over 5,500 plants and a rainwater harvesting system. Additionally, we offer programs like the Middle School externship, where students engage in sustainable development projects. At the college level, we emphasize tree plantation initiatives. What factors do parents consider when enrolling their children in schools, particularly at Shakthi Group of Institutions? Parents value a holistic learning environment that connects children with nature, provides a supportive atmosphere, and fosters strong teacher-student relationships. At Shakthi, our initiatives, such as morning Zumba dance activities and various engaging programs, create a happy and conducive learning environment for children. What were your takeaways from the New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards event, and how do such forums benefit society at large? Participating in events like the New Normal Education Leadership Summit offers valuable networking opportunities and insights into diverse educational practices. It broadens perspectives, fosters collaboration, and allows educators to address common challenges collectively. These forums facilitate knowledge exchange and contribute to the overall improvement of the education sector. Any message you’d like to convey to ArdorComm Media Group? I commend ArdorComm Media Group for its visionary initiatives, particularly in organizing events that bring together education stakeholders. Choosing Katur as the venue reflects an understanding of the region’s significance as an education hub. I look forward to future collaborations and appreciate the support offered by Arco Media Group. Thank you for this opportunity.