Australia has passed a law banning children under the age of 16 from using social media, marking a global first in addressing the challenges of online safety for young people.
The legislation, approved by the Senate on Thursday after strong support in Parliament’s lower house, imposes strict age restrictions on platforms and fines of up to AU$50 million (£26 million) for companies failing to enforce them.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who championed the bill, described it as essential for protecting children’s mental health and providing parents with peace of mind.
“This is a global problem and we want young Australians essentially to have a childhood,” he said, emphasising the government’s commitment to tackling online harm, such as cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content.
The law will require platforms to develop effective age verification systems within a year of its enactment.
A trial of enforcement methods is scheduled to begin in January. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook are likely to be affected, though specific platforms will be named later. Gaming platforms and services like YouTube, which do not require accounts, are exempt.
The measure has drawn widespread public approval, with 77% of Australians supporting the ban, according to recent polls. However, it has faced criticism from some child rights groups, privacy advocates, and academics.
Critics argue the law is too broad, risks isolating young people, and undermines parental authority. Others have raised concerns about how effectively the law can be enforced without clearer guidelines for platforms.
Social media companies, including Meta, have pushed back, calling the legislation inconsistent with parental preferences. Advocacy groups have also warned that social media is a lifeline for many young people, especially those seeking mental health support.
Despite the debate, the Mr. Albanese views the law as a crucial step in reining in harmful online practices and positioning Australia as a leader in online safety regulation.
