On September 23, the US government criticized Australia's plan to restrict social media algorithms and online harmful content, adding new political controversy to Canberra's efforts to strengthen oversight of major tech companies. Australia's draft 'Digital Duty of Care' regulations, released this month, mandate online service providers such as gaming companies, social media operators, and AI chatbots to ensure their product designs prioritize the safety of users under 18. The plan aims to reduce the spread of abusive and harmful content but also poses new compliance challenges for platform operators. Key proposals include allowing Australian social media users to opt out of algorithmic recommendations. The US Embassy in Canberra urged Australia to withdraw any plans to suppress content through algorithms based on vague government safety standards. This tough stance reflects the Trump administration's unease with global policymakers tightening regulations on tech giants like Meta. The intervention underscores the global debate over whether government restrictions are needed to control the pace of AI and related technological development.