Australia has proposed a bill to ban children under 16 from social media due to rising concerns about online safety. Platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram could face fines of up to AU$50 million if they fail to block young users. The government aims to protect teens from harmful content like drug abuse and self-harm.
The bill, which has political support, would give platforms one year to enforce age restrictions. Rowland highlighted that online safety is a major challenge for parents, with many teens exposed to harmful material. The law seeks to ensure children’s well-being while acknowledging the challenges of regulating the internet.
The ban won’t apply to messaging services, online games, or educational platforms. Rowland stated these don’t involve the same risks as social media, where content is curated to engage users. Messaging apps and gaming platforms have fewer risks of psychological manipulation.
The government is also exploring technologies to verify users’ ages and prevent under-18s from accessing pornography. Age-check systems could be fined if they misuse personal data. This step is part of a broader effort to improve online safety for children.
While the bill has support, some industry advocates warn it could push teens to less safe online spaces. They argue platforms should focus on improving safety rather than banning users. With Parliament set to vote, concerns about limited consultation remain.
