THE STANDARD FINANCIAL STANDARD As information continues to become more easily available and accessible through various digital platforms, media outlets are increasingly controlling what is availed to major tech companies. Last month, social network giant Facebook found itself in an international Public Relations nightmare after it blocked Australian users from sharing or viewing news content on the platform, including those offering Covid-19 updates and weather services. Facebook was responding to a new law by the Australian government that compels tech giants such as Facebook and Google to pay Australian media outlets for news content on the platforms. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said in so doing, Australia would become the first country to require Facebook and Google to pay for news content provided by media companies under a royalty-style system.