The Australian government plans to introduce legislation banning social media access for children under 16, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Thursday. This measure, described as one of the most stringent globally, is part of a broader effort to protect young people online. The proposed law, anticipated to take effect late next year, will implement an age-verification system to prevent underage access to social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and X.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the harm social media can inflict on young users, particularly regarding physical and mental health risks. He highlighted the impact on girls who may be exposed to harmful body image content online and boys who are exposed to misogynistic messaging.
“If you’re a 14-year-old kid getting this stuff, at a time where you’re going through life’s changes and maturing, it can be a really difficult time and what we’re doing is listening and then acting,” he said.
A minimum age for social media of 16 years will make a difference. pic.twitter.com/VfNSY17hsg
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) November 6, 2024
Australia’s approach sets it apart, with an unprecedented age limit and no exceptions for parental consent or existing accounts. Additionally, the responsibility for compliance will lie with social media companies rather than with parents or children, according to Albanese and Communications Minister Michelle Rowland.
DIGI, a digital industry group representing major tech platforms like Meta, TikTok, X, and Google, cautioned that strict bans could push young people toward unregulated areas of the internet, potentially increasing risks. DIGI’s Managing Director, Sunita Bose, suggested instead a balanced approach that includes age-appropriate online spaces and improved digital literacy.
The legislation mirrors similar efforts abroad, with countries like France proposing a ban for users under 15 and the United States requiring parental consent to collect data on children under 13. However, Australia’s age-verification trials, including biometric and government ID checks, represent a pioneering attempt to enforce such regulations.
