Australia proposes levy on Google, Meta and TikTok unless they strike news payment deals

Tuesday, April 28, 2026Technology & SocietyWell-covered5 frames

The Australian government has released draft legislation for a News Bargaining Incentive aimed at Google, Meta and TikTok.
Under the proposal, those companies would face a 2.25% levy on their Australian or local revenue if they do not reach payment agreements with local news publishers.
The proposal is designed to encourage commercial deals with Australian media outlets rather than have platforms pay the levy.
The government says any revenue collected through the levy would be directed to support Australian journalism or news companies.
The plan affects major digital platforms and Australian news publishers, reflecting the government's view that platforms benefit from news content used on services where many Australians get information.
The draft scheme is intended to replace or address shortcomings in Australia's earlier news media bargaining framework, which the government says allowed platforms to avoid obligations.
The proposal is still at the draft or consultation stage, so the final rules and the platforms' response remain unresolved.

The Australian government has released draft legislation for a News Bargaining Incentive aimed at Google, Meta and TikTok.
Under the proposal, those companies would face a 2.25% levy on their Australian or local revenue if they do not reach payment agreements with local news publishers.
The proposal is designed to encourage commercial deals with Australian media outlets rather than have platforms pay the levy.
The government says any revenue collected through the levy would be directed to support Australian journalism or news companies.
The plan affects major digital platforms and Australian news publishers, reflecting the government's view that platforms benefit from news content used on services where many Australians get information.
The draft scheme is intended to replace or address shortcomings in Australia's earlier news media bargaining framework, which the government says allowed platforms to avoid obligations.
The proposal is still at the draft or consultation stage, so the final rules and the platforms' response remain unresolved.