Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced today (7th) that his government plans to introduce world-leading legislation to ban the use of social media by teenagers under the age of 16. Albanese stressed that this move is in response to "parents' voices" and hopes that the ban will take effect within 12 months of the bill being passed.
"Social media is causing harm to young people, and we can no longer sit idly by," Albanese told the media. He pointed out that many Australian parents are "very concerned" about their children's frequent use of social media and hope that legislation will give parents a clear basis to stop their children's use. "Parents can say to their children: 'I'm sorry, the law doesn't allow you to do this.'"
Specific implementation methods
If the bill passes, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram will be responsible for enforcing the age limit. The federal government will require these platforms to prove they have taken "reasonable steps" to prevent access by users under the age of 16. According to Albanese, the legislation will not provide "exemptions"—even teenagers already using the platform will be required to comply, and parental consent will not be required for children under 16 to register accounts.
Albanese added: "We acknowledge that these regulations won't solve all problems immediately, but just like keeping alcohol from people under 18, these laws set boundaries for society and help push society in the right direction."
Leaders from all states and territories will hold a special National Cabinet meeting tomorrow to discuss and support the policy. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has also warned that social media companies will face fines if they do not comply with the ban. The eSafety Commissioner will be tasked with ensuring the regulation is enforced.
The rise in youth crime rates in Australia has become a widespread concern. The government's proposed ban aims to reduce the exposure of young people to harmful content on social media and create a safer environment for them through age restrictions.
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