Australia Implements Social Media Ban for Under-16s Amid Controversy
Australians responded with mixed emotions on Friday to the government’s new law banning children under 16 from social media, a move the government describes as “world-leading” but which platforms like TikTok argue could drive young users to “darker corners of the internet.”
The landmark legislation, approved late Thursday, sets a global precedent with some of the toughest restrictions on Big Tech. Platforms including Instagram, Facebook (owned by Meta), and TikTok must block under-16s from accessing their services or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million). A trial for enforcement will begin in January, with the ban fully effective in a year.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the move, stating, “Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority.” He cited concerns over the physical and mental health risks posed by social media, including harmful depictions of body image for girls and misogynistic content targeting boys.
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Mixed Reactions
In Sydney, public response highlighted both support and criticism.
Francesca Sambas, a resident, welcomed the decision, saying, “Social media for kids is not really appropriate; sometimes they can see things they shouldn’t.”
However, others criticized the measure as authoritarian. “I’m feeling very angry,” said 58-year-old Shon Klose. “How could they make these laws and push them upon the people?”
Children like 11-year-old Emma Wakefield expressed skepticism about the ban’s effectiveness, saying, “I feel like I still will use it, just secretly.”
A Global Benchmark
Australia’s ban surpasses regulations in countries like France and certain US states, where minors can access social media with parental permission. Unlike these regions, Australia’s law enforces an outright ban.
The bill passed quickly through parliament during its final sitting week of the year, with critics, including social media firms, arguing it lacked sufficient scrutiny.
Industry Pushback
A TikTok spokesperson voiced disappointment, claiming the rushed process ignored advice from online safety and mental health experts. “The ban could push young people to unsafe areas of the internet, lacking community guidelines or protections,” the spokesperson warned.
Broader Implications
The ban could strain Australia’s relationship with the US, as Elon Musk, owner of X (formerly Twitter), labeled the law “a backdoor way to control internet access by all Australians.”
Despite the criticism, Albanese maintained that the legislation, though imperfect, sends a clear message. “Just like the alcohol ban for under-18s isn’t flawless, we believe this is the right step,” he said.
The move builds on Australia’s growing efforts to regulate Big Tech, including forcing platforms to pay royalties to media outlets and introducing penalties for failing to combat online scams.
