Australia is on the verge of implementing some of the world’s strictest social media regulations for children under 16. On Wednesday, the country’s House of Representatives passed a bill to enforce the ban, with strong bipartisan support. The legislation now moves to the Senate, where it is expected to be debated and potentially passed by Thursday, the close of the parliamentary year.
Key Provisions and Penalties
The proposed law mandates social media platforms to implement robust age-verification systems. Companies could face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million (USD 32 million) for repeated violations. While the exact verification methods are still under trial, ranging from biometrics to government IDs the bill emphasizes protecting users’ personal data.
A Senate committee, which reviewed the legislation, recommended against requiring sensitive documents like passports for age verification. It also urged the government to engage youth directly in shaping the policy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and balanced approaches.
Bipartisan Push Amid Industry Opposition
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor government framed the ban as a public health measure, highlighting the risks of excessive social media use on children’s mental and physical well-being. The policy aligns with Albanese’s effort to bolster approval ratings ahead of a potential May election, securing support from parents concerned about online safety.
However, tech giants, including Google and Meta, have called for delaying the legislation until mid-2025, when the age-verification trials are expected to conclude. TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) have also expressed concerns, citing the need for more consultation and potential impacts on children’s rights.
Divided Opinions
The move has sparked intense debate among stakeholders. While advocacy groups like the Australian Parents Council applaud the initiative, youth advocates and teens themselves warn of unintended consequences. Critics argue the ban may hinder young people’s ability to connect socially and could limit their access to educational content.
Sixteen-year-old Sydney student Enie Lam shared her perspective:
“I understand that using social media a lot is not a good thing, and I’m working on it. But a ban is not going to work.”
Meanwhile, parents who testified during an inquiry into social media’s effects on children shared stories of cyberbullying and self-harm, adding emotional weight to the debate.
Broad Public Support
Despite opposition from youth advocates and some lawmakers, the ban enjoys widespread public backing. A recent YouGov poll showed 77% of Australians support the move, up from 61% in August. Media outlets, including the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and News Corp, have also rallied behind the campaign, amplifying its message through editorials like News Corp’s “Let Them Be Kids.”
What’s Next?
The bill’s fate now lies in the Senate, where Labor must navigate resistance from left-leaning Greens and some conservatives who argue for delaying implementation. Even so, growing public support and bipartisan cooperation indicate Australia is set to lead the charge in regulating young people’s social media use.
The outcome will set a significant precedent, not just for Australia but for global discussions on children’s safety in the digital age.
