7-11-2024 (SYDNEY) Australia has announced plans for unprecedented legislation to ban social media access for children under 16, marking what officials describe as the world’s most stringent approach to protecting young people online.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled the landmark proposal on Thursday, citing growing concerns over the mental and physical health impacts of social media on young Australians. The proposed legislation, expected to become law in late 2025, will require social media platforms to actively prevent users under 16 from accessing their services.
“Social media is doing harm to our kids and I’m calling time on it,” Albanese declared, highlighting particular concerns about harmful body image content targeting girls and misogynistic material aimed at boys during crucial developmental stages.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland confirmed the legislation will affect major platforms including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and potentially YouTube. The measures will surpass existing international regulations, featuring no exemptions for parental consent or pre-existing accounts.
The government plans to trial various age verification methods, including biometric data and government identification, making Australia the first nation to attempt such comprehensive verification measures. Platform operators will bear responsibility for preventing underage access, rather than parents or young users.
However, the Digital Industry Group, representing major tech companies, has expressed concerns that the ban could drive young users toward more dangerous, unregulated online spaces. Managing Director Sunita Bose advocated for “a balanced approach to create age-appropriate spaces” rather than outright prohibition.
The opposition Liberal Party has indicated support for the ban, suggesting broad political consensus for the measure. The legislation is set to be introduced to parliament this year, with platforms given 12 months to comply following ratification.
This move positions Australia at the forefront of global efforts to regulate youth social media use, exceeding France’s under-15 ban proposal and America’s existing under-13 restrictions.
