Australian MPs have voted forbid Children under the age of 16 have stopped using social media – even if their parents are okay with it.
Friday morning, the Australian House of Representatives accepted bill with bilateral support, putting an end to the legislative process that started just a week ago. Social media giants were quick to criticize the new bill, expressing concern that the process of passing it was “rushed” and that details on enforcement were lacking.
A Meta spokeswoman said the US company respected Australia’s decision, but said it was “concerned by the process the legislation sped up”.
“Last week, the special committee of the Parliament” said the causal link with social media is unclear’ in relation to the mental health of young Australians,” the spokesperson added. “This demonstrates the lack of evidence underpinning the legislation and suggests it was a predetermined process.”
Meta owns Facebook and Instagram.
TikTok too he said “it was important that the (Australian) government worked closely with industry to resolve the issues created by this fast-track process.”
A Snap spokesman argued there were “many unanswered questions” about how the law would be implemented in practice, and said it would work closely with authorities over the next 12 months to develop an approach that balances security, privacy and practicality.
Consequences for children
Some studies show that prolonged exposure to social media increases the risk of negative effects such as anxiety or depression. However, experts are divided on whether a blanket ban like Australia’s is the right solution, worried that a polarized debate risks creating a one-size-fits-all solution. Other experts worry about social media platforms it can be the only option available to isolated youth.
Social media companies expressed concern in the days leading up to the bill. X owner Elon Musk also spoke, suggest last week, the bill “looks like a backdoor way to control internet access for all Australians”. (Musk has been a frequent offender of the Australian government, refusing to comply with Australian government orders to remove content worldwide).
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, facing an election early next year, says legislation to protect young people is needed. It has also painted social media as a tool for scammers and online predators, as well as a driver of anxiety.
The law received support from Australia’s two main political parties and parent groups. However, it is still unclear how the law will work. The legislation requires tech companies to take “reasonable steps” to prevent underage users from accessing social media, or face fines of up to A$50 million ($32 million) if they fail to comply.
The ban is expected to control access to platforms such as Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, X and Reddit. Exceptions may be granted for messaging and education-related services such as YouTube, Google Classroom, and WhatsApp. The ban will take effect from the end of 2025, but does not provide details on how tech companies can verify the age of users.
Critics raise privacy concerns
Critics say a ban also raises privacy concerns and could pose more risks to children.
The Australian Child Rights Taskforce has stated that the platforms will refuse to offer child safety features, meaning that younger users who somehow gain access to the social network will not be protected.
The Digital Industry Group Inc., an Australian non-profit association, warned that the ban could push young people into dark places on the internet that lack the safety railings of mainstream platforms.
Australia’s social media ban is one of the toughest to target Big Tech, but it’s not unprecedented.
Last year, France overcome Legislation requiring children under the age of 15 to obtain parental consent before accessing a social media platform, but local media reported that technical challenges have led to a lack of enforcement. Norway also hopes to enforce a strict minimum age of 15 for social media access.
US states have also hit social media. New York and California overcome legislation aimed at protecting underage users from recommendation algorithms. Utah and Arkansas have tried to override age restrictions, though doubt in court
However, the ban in Australia is tougher by denying children access to social media, even if they get parental consent.
