Chalmers Slams Social Media as ‘Business Model for Hate’ as Half of Young Australians See US as Threat

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has launched a scathing attack on social media platforms, describing them as a “business model for hate” in a speech that underscores growing government concern over online harms. Chalmers’ comments come amid a broader debate about regulation, digital safety, and the responsibilities of tech giants, positioning Australia at the forefront of efforts to hold platforms accountable for the content they amplify. His remarks are likely to fuel calls for tougher laws and could influence upcoming policy decisions on misinformation and online safety. Meanwhile, a striking new poll reveals that half of young Australians now view the United States as a “threat,” reflecting shifting geopolitical attitudes among the next generation. The finding highlights a significant erosion of trust in the traditional alliance, driven by concerns over US domestic politics, foreign policy, and global stability. This generational divide could have long-term implications for Australia’s strategic positioning and its relationship with Washington, especially as Canberra navigates complex regional dynamics in the Indo-Pacific. The convergence of these two stories—domestic anxiety over social media’s corrosive influence and a cooling of enthusiasm for the US among youth—paints a picture of a nation grappling with both internal and external sources of instability. For policymakers, the challenge is twofold: reining in the harmful effects of digital platforms while managing an alliance that younger Australians increasingly question. The poll’s stark numbers may prompt a rethink of how Australia engages its youth on foreign policy and security. As the political debate intensifies, expect social media regulation and the US alliance to remain flashpoints in the lead-up to the next election. The question now is whether these warnings will translate into concrete action—or simply more rhetoric.