Tejal Somvanshi
In an unprecedented move affecting digital access for young Australians, the nation’s parliament has enacted legislation barring children under 16 from using major social media platforms. This law positions Australia as the first country globally to implement such stringent age restrictions on social media access.
The legislation carries substantial penalties, with social media companies facing fines up to A$49.5 million for failing to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms. The regulations will affect major tech companies including Meta’s platforms, TikTok, and X.
Public backing for the measure appears robust, with YouGov polling data showing 77% of Australians support the restrictions – a notable increase from 61% in August. The unified stance of all eight state and territory leaders further reinforces this broad-based support.
Christopher Stone, who leads Suicide Prevention Australia, voiced serious reservations: “The government is running blindfolded into a brick wall,” he stated, emphasizing the need for thorough consultation rather than hasty implementation.
Meta’s response reflects industry-wide concerns. A company spokesperson expressed worry about the rushed legislative process, stating they were “concerned” about insufficient consideration of “evidence, what industry already does to ensure age-appropriate experiences, and the voices of young people.”
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The practical implementation remains undefined. While platforms must take “reasonable steps” to verify users’ ages, specific verification methods will be determined through technology trials. YouTube has received an exemption based on its educational value.
Sydney student Enie Lam presents a pragmatic counterpoint: “It will only create a generation of young people who will be more technologically literate in bypassing these walls.”
Parent Amy Friedlander articulates the current dilemma many families face: “For too long parents have had this impossible choice between giving in and getting their child an addictive device or seeing their child isolated and feeling left out.”
Ali Halkic, who lost his 17-year-old son to suicide following social media bullying in 2009, sees the legislation as “a starting point” for strengthening parental oversight.
The implementation timeline and specific requirements are still being developed. Other countries are monitoring Australia’s approach as they consider their own policies regarding youth social media access.
