Australia has introduced one of the world’s strictest social media regulations, banning children under 16 from accessing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Approved on Thursday, the law requires tech companies to block underage users or face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars ($32 million USD). The government plans to trial enforcement methods in January 2024, with the full ban set to take effect a year later.
This legislation positions Australia as a global leader in regulating social media amid growing concerns about its impact on young people’s mental health. While other jurisdictions, such as France and some U.S. states, have implemented parental consent requirements, Australia’s approach is more severe, with an outright ban. Similar measures elsewhere, such as Florida’s ban for users under 14, have faced legal challenges over free speech.
National Debate and Mixed Reactions
The passage of the Social Media Minimum Age Bill sparked heated debate, dividing opinion across Australia. Public support for the measure was overwhelming, with polls showing 77% of Australians in favor. Media outlets, led by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp, championed the ban through a campaign called “Let Them Be Kids.” Parents of children who suffered from online bullying shared emotional testimonies, further rallying public sentiment.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, facing declining approval ratings ahead of the 2025 election, hailed the legislation as a major achievement. For many, the law represents a decisive step toward safeguarding children from the risks of unregulated social media use. Advocates like Ali Halkic, whose son died by suicide after social media bullying, praised the law as a necessary intervention to give parents greater control.
Despite its strong backing, the law has drawn criticism from privacy advocates, child rights groups, and youth organizations. Critics argue the ban may isolate vulnerable young people, such as LGBTQIA and migrant teens, who depend on social media for support networks. Privacy groups also raised concerns about data collection for age verification, warning it could lead to increased surveillance. A last-minute amendment now requires platforms to offer alternatives to uploading ID documents.
Youth advocates and some experts believe the ban could push teenagers toward less visible, riskier online spaces. Sydney student Enie Lam, 16, voiced skepticism, suggesting the ban would lead to greater technological savvy among teens attempting to bypass restrictions.
Implementation Challenges and Industry Pushback
Tech companies and industry groups have expressed doubts about the practicality of enforcing the law. Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, criticized the process as rushed and insufficiently informed by existing safeguards or the voices of young users. TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) did not comment, while YouTube was exempted due to its widespread use in educational contexts.
Sunita Bose, managing director of the Digital Industry Group, which represents major social media platforms, highlighted the lack of government guidance. She described the legislation as “putting the cart before the horse,” with companies unclear about the required age verification methods. Critics argue this creates an uneven burden on platforms without guaranteeing effective enforcement.
Broader Implications and Global Impact
The law could strain Australia’s relationship with its key ally, the United States, where most tech giants are headquartered. Elon Musk, owner of X, criticized the move as a potential step toward broader internet censorship. Australia has already clashed with Big Tech by introducing laws requiring platforms to pay royalties for news content and tackle online scams.
Supporters view the ban as a necessary measure to protect children, while opponents warn of unintended harm and overreach. As the law is implemented, its success will serve as a crucial test case, shaping the global conversation around balancing youth protection with digital rights.