Australia Enacts Social Media Prohibition for Minors: Key Details and Implications

Australia Imposes Social Media Ban for Children Under 16: What Parents Need to Know

Australia is moving forward with a significant policy to protect children from the harmful effects of social media. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that the government will introduce legislation to raise the minimum age for accessing social media to 16 years.

This move is aimed at addressing concerns about the mental and social harm that platforms like Facebook and TikTok are causing to young people.

The law will require tech companies to ensure compliance or face significant fines. A 12-month grace period will be given to allow these companies to implement the necessary systems.

The government has emphasized that this step follows consultations with experts and parents and builds on previous efforts to combat online harms.

Services primarily focused on education and health will be exempt, ensuring children still have access to critical resource.