Australia announces plan to ban social media for kids under 16

The Australian government has made a groundbreaking announcement regarding new legislation that aims to set a minimum age limit of 16 for children to start using social media platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described this move as a crucial step in protecting young individuals from the harmful effects of social media.

The proposed legislation is set to be introduced in Parliament during the final two weeks of session this year, starting on Nov. 18. Once passed, the age limit would come into effect 12 months later. This timeline allows social media platforms such as X, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to make the necessary adjustments to prevent Australian children under the age of 16 from accessing their services.

Albanese emphasized that the safety of children online is a top priority for the government, as many parents and guardians share concerns about the impact of social media on young individuals. The proposed age limit aligns with global efforts to regulate technology use among minors and protect them from potential risks.

Under the new legislation, social media platforms would be held accountable for ensuring compliance with the age limit. Penalties would be imposed on platforms that fail to adhere to the regulations, while underage children and their parents would not be held responsible. The responsibility lies with the platforms to implement measures to prevent access by individuals under 16 years of age.

Antigone Davis, head of safety at Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, stated that the company would comply with any age restrictions mandated by the government. However, she highlighted the importance of implementing effective protective measures to safeguard teenagers and address online risks comprehensively.

The Digital Industry Group Inc. (DIGI) expressed reservations about the age limit, describing it as a “20th Century response to 21st Century challenges.” DIGI’s managing director, Sunita Bose, emphasized the need for a balanced approach that focuses on creating age-appropriate online spaces, enhancing digital literacy, and protecting young individuals from online harm.

Despite some opposition to the age limit, the government remains committed to implementing the new regulations. The eSafety Commissioner, Australia’s online watchdog, will oversee compliance and provide guidance to platforms based on the results of a trial of age-restriction technologies conducted earlier this year.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the importance of enhanced penalties to ensure compliance with the age limit. The government is determined to uphold Australian laws and hold companies accountable for adhering to regulatory requirements.

While the main opposition party has expressed support for the age limit, challenges remain in terms of enforcement and cost implications for social media platforms. However, with well-drafted legislation and a steadfast approach, lawmakers believe that the desired outcomes can be achieved to protect young individuals from the potential risks associated with social media use.