Australia is set to introduce a groundbreaking legislation aimed at protecting children under 16 from social media platforms. The proposed law, introduced by the government led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, could impose fines of up to $33 million on companies that fail to prevent minors from accessing their services, including major platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized that this bill seeks to establish a societal norm where social media is not a defining aspect of childhood in Australia. The legislation is being touted as 'world-leading' and aims to address the various harms associated with social media usage among young people.
The proposed ban applies universally to all children under 16, with no exceptions for existing users or those with parental consent. However, platforms such as YouTube and messaging services like WhatsApp will be exempt. Social media companies will have one year to devise strategies to enforce the ban, which will not penalize users who circumvent it.
Rowland asserted that the responsibility for ensuring the safety and mental health of young Australians falls on social media platforms, not on parents or children. The government has also initiated measures to prevent minors from accessing pornography online.
Despite the bill's intentions, reactions have been mixed. Critics, including over 100 Australian academics, have labeled the ban as overly simplistic and potentially harmful, arguing it could drive children to unregulated online spaces. There are also concerns regarding the effectiveness of age verification and the potential negative impact on marginalized groups.
As Australia navigates this complex issue, the eSafety Commissioner will develop the framework for implementing and enforcing these new regulations. This initiative represents a significant step in the ongoing global conversation about the role of technology in children's lives.