In a landmark decision that has captured global attention, Australia has approved a strict ban preventing children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, citing mental health concerns. This legislation, passed after intense debate, positions Australia as a trailblazer in the regulation of Big Tech, with potential ripple effects worldwide.
The new law mandates social media giants such as Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, and TikTok to block access to minors or face hefty fines up to A$49.5 million ($32 million). A pilot enforcement phase is set for January, with full implementation a year later.
Australia’s Social Media Minimum Age bill arrives amid a global revaluation of social media’s impact on youth mental health. Unlike laws in France and some U.S. states that require parental consent for minors, Australia’s approach is uncompromising. In contrast, Florida’s similar under-14s ban is currently mired in legal challenges over free speech rights.
This legislation marks a significant political achievement for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, ahead of the 2025 elections. Despite encountering resistance from privacy advocates and child rights organizations, the law enjoys robust public support, with a recent poll indicating 77% approval.
The legislative process included a comprehensive parliamentary inquiry throughout 2024, featuring testimonies from parents whose children suffered from social media-related bullying. The campaign, strongly supported by domestic media, particularly Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp, resonated with the public under the banner “Let Them Be Kids.”
However, the ban poses potential diplomatic challenges, notably with the United States. Influential figures such as Elon Musk, owner of X and closely aligned with president-elect Donald Trump, criticized the move as a potential overreach into broader internet access for Australians.
Australia’s regulatory stance adds to an existing climate of tension with primarily U.S.-based tech firms. It follows Australia’s pioneering law requiring social media platforms to pay royalties to media outlets and plans to impose fines on these companies for failing to eliminate scams.
A spokesperson for Meta expressed respect for Australian law but voiced concerns about the legislative process, emphasizing that it overlooked existing industry measures for age-appropriate experiences and neglected to incorporate young people’s perspectives.
This bold step by Australia is likely to influence other nations grappling with similar challenges, setting a precedent for balancing technological freedom with societal responsibilities.