Australian lawmakers have taken a significant step towards banning children under 16 from social media platforms. The landmark legislation passed the parliament’s lower chamber and is now set to be debated by the Senate.
Key Provisions of the Ban
- Social media companies, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, must take “reasonable steps” to prevent young teens from creating accounts.
- Companies that fail to comply with the ban may face fines of up to Aus$50 million (US$32.5 million).
- The ban is expected to come into effect after a 12-month period, during which regulators will work out the details of enforcement.
Reactions to the Ban
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has championed the ban, citing concerns about the impact of social media on young people’s mental health and well-being. However, social media companies and some experts have expressed concerns about the ban, describing it as “vague,” “problematic,” and “rushed”.
Concerns and Exemptions
Some experts have raised concerns that the ban may not be effective, as young people may find ways to circumvent the restrictions. Others have pointed out that the ban may have unintended consequences, such as isolating young people who rely on online communities.
Certain companies, such as WhatsApp and YouTube, may be granted exemptions from the ban, as they provide services that are essential for education and communication. LinkedIn has also requested an exemption, arguing that its platform is not appealing to minors.
