Australia Proposes Groundbreaking Ban on Social Media for Children Under 16

Credent International Desk, 08 Nov 2024 : Australia is set to implement a world-leading ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, a move aimed at safeguarding young Australians from the potential harms of online platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced this pioneering legislation, which is expected to be introduced in Parliament soon.

Key Highlights of the Proposed Legislation

Strict Age Limit

• The proposed law will establish 16 years as the minimum age for social media use.
• There will be no exceptions, even with parental consent, ensuring a uniform application of the age restriction.

Responsibility on Social Media Platforms

• Social media companies will be tasked with demonstrating that they are taking reasonable measures to prevent access by users under 16.
• Platforms such as Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, TikTok, and Elon Musk’s X will be directly impacted by these regulations.

Timeline for Implementation

• The legislation is expected to be presented in Parliament during its final sessions this year, starting on November 18.
• If passed, the law will come into effect one year later, giving platforms time to adapt their systems.

Government’s Stance on Online Safety

Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting children from the dangers posed by social media. He stated:

“Social media is harming our children, and it’s time to put an end to it.”

The government aims to alleviate concerns voiced by parents and guardians regarding online safety.

Read more on Metal Health

Potential Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Social media companies that fail to comply with the new regulations may face significant fines.
• Notably, minors and their parents will not incur penalties under this legislation.

Australia’s proposed ban on social media for those under 16 represents a significant step in addressing online safety concerns. As nations worldwide grapple with similar issues, Australia’s approach could serve as a model for other countries considering similar measures.