Australia Approves Social Media Ban for Under-16s

The Australian government has approved a ban on social media usage for children under 16. Passed by lawmakers today, the law will take effect within 12 months.

Despite objections from tech companies claiming that enforcing the rules would be challenging, Australian lawmakers have stood firm. The legislation grants social media platforms a one-year period to comply. Importantly, responsibility will lie with platform providers, not children or their parents.

YouTube and WhatsApp Exempt

While the law does not explicitly name platforms, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese indicated that Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok are expected to comply. However, YouTube and messaging platforms like WhatsApp will be exempt.

The law does not specify how age restrictions will be enforced, but non-compliance could lead to fines of up to AUD 50 million  (approximately USD 32.4 million). Users will not be required to upload identification documents as part of the verification process.

A recent survey revealed that 77% of Australians support these restrictions. Similar proposals for stricter age limits on social media are being discussed in Norway and Florida. However, in Florida, the proposals face opposition due to concerns about free speech.

Meta criticized the bill, calling it "inconsistent and ineffective," while X owner Elon Musk condemned it as an attempt to control Australians' access to the internet.