Facebook's actions against Australian news will damage its reputation, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg says.
He said Facebook's ban has shown the immense power of "digital giants".
"Facebook was wrong. Facebook's actions were unnecessary, they were heavy-handed," Mr Frydenberg said in Canberra today.
"Their decision to block Australians' access to government sites - be they about support through the pandemic, mental health, emergency services, the Bureau of Meteorology - were completely unrelated to the media code which is yet to pass through the Senate."
READ MORE: 'Facebook is not compatible with democracy'
Mr Frydenberg said the government remains committed to legislating and implementing the code.
"This digital code, this new media bargaining code, is very important microeconomic reform," he said.
"We want to thank Google for the very constructive discussions that they have been having with stakeholders."
Mr Frydenberg said the government was given no warning before the ban.
"It's fair to say the eyes of the world are watching what's happening here in Australia in real time," he said.
"There's no doubt the work of the ACCC, which has been over more than a couple of years, has been world-leading. So, other countries are watching."
EXPLAINED: Facebook has banned Australia's access to news, here's what it means
Communications Minister Paul Fletcher described Facebook's decision as "very unfortunate".
"We have been very clear all the way along that we certainly want Google and Facebook to stay in Australia, continue to be important parts of the digital economy here," he said.
"But at the same time if you're doing business in Australia you need to comply with the laws made by the elected Australian Parliament."
He slammed Facebook for blocking the pages of health departments and emergency services.
"That's a public safety issue," Mr Fletcher said.
"I've spoken to Facebook this morning and said the Government expects them to restore those pages as quickly as possible."
READ MORE: What are the global implications for Facebook, following the news ban?
More to come..
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