Australia to Introduce Social Media Ban for Children Under 16, PM Albanese Announces

In an unprecedented move to enhance youth safety online, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the government will introduce legislation later this month to ban children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. The proposed law aims to tackle the rising risks associated with social media use among minors, including cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and privacy concerns. This legislation, if passed, will make Australia one of the few countries globally with such a stringent age restriction.

Prime Minister Albanese underscored the government’s responsibility to create safer digital spaces for young people, stating, “The internet has become part of everyday life, but it shouldn’t be a threat to our children’s well-being. We owe it to young Australians to protect them from online harm.”

The legislation will mandate age verification for major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, requiring them to block access for users under the age of 16. This could involve parental consent protocols, government-issued ID checks, or third-party verification services. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will oversee the enforcement of these regulations, with potential fines or penalties for companies that fail to comply.

Public response has been mixed. Supporters of the legislation argue that it will help shield children from cyber risks and reduce the mental health issues associated with social media use at a young age. “This could reduce cyberbullying and promote a healthier social environment for minors,” said Julie Inman Grant, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner.

On the other hand, critics question the effectiveness and feasibility of a complete ban. Some argue that children could find ways to bypass these restrictions and that educating minors on responsible internet use might be more beneficial than restricting access. Social psychologist Dr. Emily Hughes noted, “While safety is critical, building digital resilience is equally essential.”

As Australia prepares to enforce what could be one of the world’s strictest social media regulations for children, the move highlights an emerging global trend focused on online safety. This legislation, if successful, could set a precedent, sparking similar measures in other countries

Reference from : - https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/australia-to-introduce-this-month-legislation-to-ban-social-media-for-children-under-16-pm-anthony-albanese-says/articleshow/115067522.cms?from=mdr