In a move to tackle concerns over social media’s impact on kids, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced new legislation that could ban young people under 16 from using social media. The proposed law, which is expected to take effect a year after it passes, would hold social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram responsible for ensuring users meet the age requirement.
Albanese made the announcement in a message aimed directly at parents, acknowledging their worries about the harm social media can cause. He explained, "I want parents to be able to say, 'Sorry mate, it's against the law for me to let you do this.'"
Under the new rules, social media companies would need to prove they're taking reasonable steps to block access to users under 16. There would be no penalties for underage users, but platforms failing to comply could face consequences. In fact, the eSafety commissioner would be tasked with making sure the rule is enforced.
This proposed change follows South Australia’s earlier push for social media giants to ban kids under 14, and it’s getting support from the Coalition as well. Albanese also emphasized that, while the law might not solve all the problems right away, it would set important boundaries, much like laws around buying alcohol for under-18s.
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