TO PROTECT CHILDREN, GIVE PARENTS PEACE OF MIND: Australia mulls social media ban for minors

International

AUSTRALIA is set to introduce a new legislation that will ban children under 16 years old from using social media, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced.

The proposed law aims to hold tech companies accountable for ensuring users meet the minimum age requirement, shifting the responsibility away from parents.

In a video posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Albanese explained the reason behind this decision.

“Too often, social media isn’t social at all. And we all know that. The truth is, it’s doing harm to our children,” Albanese said.

“This is about giving children a childhood and giving parents peace of mind,” he added.

Albanese emphasized that the burden of protecting children online would fall on social media platforms, not parents.

“I want parents to know that we are listening and we are acting to deliver that positive change that will make a real difference,” he concluded in his video message to Australian parents.

He also cited that there would be no penalties for young users or their families.

Instead, tech companies will be required to enforce age limits and take stronger measures to prevent underage access.

The initiative has received widespread bipartisan support across Australia’s political landscape.

Many lawmakers agree that stronger regulations are needed to safeguard young people in the digital age.

Albanese confirmed that the legislation would be presented to state and territory leaders for review later this week, with plans to formally introduce the bill to parliament by late November.

The move comes as part of a broader push by the Australian government to clamp down on online harm and improve digital safety for children.

If passed, the law will pressure tech companies to implement robust age-verification systems and ensure their platforms are inaccessible to underage users.

Last September, the Australian Prime Minister announced his intention to enact this legislation.

In a post on his official website, Albanese emphasized the role of government to do everything it can to safeguard the young population.(CMM)