Australia Passes Landmark Law Banning Under-16s from Social Media

Australia has enacted one of the world’s strictest regulations on social media, banning children under the age of 16 from using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, Al Jazeera reports.

The law, passed by the Senate on Thursday, mandates that social media companies actively prevent underage users from creating accounts, facing fines of up to AU$50 million (US$32.5 million) for non-compliance.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a staunch advocate for the legislation, urged parents to support the bill, framing social media as a breeding ground for peer pressure, anxiety, scams, and online predators. He envisioned the law freeing young Australians to engage in traditional activities.

Public support for the ban is high, with recent polls indicating 77% approval. Ali Halkic, an anti-bullying advocate whose son died by suicide following social media bullying, praised the legislation as a crucial step towards empowering parents.

However, the legislation has drawn criticism from advocacy groups and academics who warn of potential negative consequences.

Australia’s Human Rights Commission expressed apprehension that the law may infringe on the human rights of young people by limiting their participation in society. Privacy advocates also voiced concerns about the potential for increased personal data collection to enforce the ban.