The Australian government made a significant announcement on Thursday regarding the implementation of new legislation that would establish an age limit of 16 for children to start using social media platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the negative impact of social media on children and expressed the need to address this issue.
The proposed legislation is set to be introduced in Parliament during the final two weeks of the session, starting on November 18. The age restriction would come into effect 12 months after the law is passed, giving platforms like X, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook time to figure out how to prevent Australian children under 16 from accessing their services.
Albanese highlighted the concerns of parents, grandparents, and other family members about the safety of children online. The move to regulate social media for children under 16 comes as governments worldwide grapple with how to safeguard young people’s use of digital platforms.
Under the new legislation, social media platforms would be held accountable for breaches of the age limit, with the onus on them to demonstrate that they are taking appropriate measures to restrict access. Parents and underage children would not be penalized for violations.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, expressed willingness to adhere to any age restrictions mandated by the government. However, there are calls for a more comprehensive discussion on implementing safeguards to ensure the well-being of teens and parents.
The Digital Industry Group Inc. raised concerns about the age limit being an outdated response to modern challenges. The organization emphasized the importance of creating age-appropriate online spaces, promoting digital literacy, and protecting young people from online threats.
Despite some opposition to the age limit, with concerns about driving social media behavior underground, the government is moving forward with its plans. Exemptions and exclusions will be considered for certain circumstances, such as educational purposes, but parental consent will not override the age limit.
The government had previously initiated a trial of age-restriction technologies, and the eSafety Commissioner will provide guidance to platforms based on the trial results. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland stressed the need for enhanced penalties to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
While the opposition party has expressed support for the age limit, challenges remain in enforcing the restrictions. However, lawmakers believe that with well-crafted legislation and a commitment to implementation, the desired outcomes can be achieved.
The debate over regulating social media for children under 16 continues, with a focus on balancing protection with the need for online connectivity and education. As the legislation moves forward, stakeholders will need to collaborate to address concerns and ensure the effective implementation of the age limit.
