On November 21, 2024, the Australian government introduced a bill in parliament aimed at banning social media access for children under the age of 16. This legislation proposes fines of up to A$49.5 million (approximately $32 million) for social media platforms that fail to comply with age-verification requirements.
The proposed law includes a trial of an age-verification system that may utilize biometrics or government identification. If passed, this would establish one of the most stringent social media regulations globally, with no exemptions for parental consent or existing accounts.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the initiative as a landmark reform, emphasizing that it sends a strong message to social media companies to enhance user safety. The opposition Liberal party has expressed support for the bill, although some independents and members of the Green party are seeking further details.
While the legislation aims to protect children from harmful content, it will still allow access to messaging services, online gaming, and educational resources. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland highlighted the risks posed by excessive social media use, particularly for young Australians, with many reporting exposure to harmful content.
The law mandates that social media platforms implement reasonable age-verification measures and includes privacy provisions to protect user data. Rowland stated that social media companies must be held accountable for user safety.