Australia Proposes Age Limit to Ban Children from Social Media Platforms
Australia is moving forward with plans to introduce an age limit that would restrict children from accessing social media platforms, aiming to protect minors from online risks. The proposed legislation would establish a minimum age for users and require parental consent for young people under 16, part of a broader government effort to improve online safety and curb harmful content exposure.
Under the new rules, social media companies will be required to verify users’ ages, using tools like age checks and identity verification. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, which are popular among young users, will need to comply with these regulations or face substantial penalties. The legislation is designed to address growing concerns about the impact of social media on mental health, cyberbullying, and privacy for children.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, expressed strong support for the move, emphasizing that children are increasingly exposed to harmful content, such as online harassment and inappropriate material, at younger ages. “This is about giving parents more control and ensuring that young people are safe in the digital space,” she said.
Critics of the proposal argue that enforcing age verification could be difficult and that children may still find ways around the restrictions. Others warn of potential privacy concerns regarding the collection of personal data for age verification purposes. However, supporters believe the measure is essential to limit the negative impacts of social media on children’s mental health and well-being.
If passed, Australia would join a growing list of countries considering similar regulations to protect young internet users. The legislation is expected to face debate, but lawmakers are pushing for swift action, citing the urgent need to address the long-term effects of social media use on children.
