WEB DESK: The government of Australia has announced plans to introduce landmark legislation that would prohibit children under 16 using social media.
As per detail, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the proposed law, which will be introduce in parliament next week, aimed at reducing the “harm” social media poses to Australian children.
“This one is for the mums and dads… They, like me, worried sick about the safety of our kids online. I want Australian families to know that the government has your back,” Albanese said
The details are still under discussion, but the government clarified that the ban will not apply to children already active on social media, and there will be no parental consent exemptions. Social media platforms will be responsible for proving they are taking reasonable steps to prevent underage access. Enforcement of the law will fall under Australia’s online regulator, the eSafety Commissioner, with no penalties for users.
If passed, the legislation will take effect 12 months later and undergo a review afterward. Many experts agree that social media can harm adolescents’ mental health, though opinions vary on whether a ban is the best approach. Some believe bans only delay exposure to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook rather than preparing young people to navigate online spaces safely.
