Elon Musk Calls Australian Government 'Fascists' Over Proposed Misinformation Law

Elon Musk labeled Australia's center-left government 'fascists' following their introduction of legislation that would fine social media firms for failing to curb misinformation. The proposed law targets tech platforms, demanding codes of conduct and setting regulatory standards. This isn't Musk's first clash with Australian authorities.

Elon Musk, owner of social media platform X, on Friday branded Australia's centre-left government 'fascists' over new legislation aimed at penalizing social media firms failing to prevent misinformation. Australia's Labor government introduced this law in Parliament, potentially fining tech giants up to 5% of their global revenue for non-compliance.

The proposed legislation requires internet platforms to establish and adhere to codes of conduct for limiting dangerous falsehoods. Should a platform fail to comply, a designated regulator can impose its own standards, thus ensuring regulatory oversight and fines for non-adherence.

Musk's criticism came in response to an X user's post linking a news story about the legislation. This isn't the first confrontation between Musk and the Australian government. In April, X challenged a regulator's order related to content removal, stirring comments from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. More recently, government officials rebuked Musk's remarks, emphasizing the importance of legislative sovereignty and public safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)