Australia becomes first country to ban social media for any age-group

PTC Web Desk: Australia has passed a groundbreaking law that bans children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, setting a global precedent for regulating Big Tech. The legislation, which passed after intense national debate, requires tech giants such as Meta (Instagram, Facebook), TikTok, and others to prevent minors from logging in or face hefty fines of up to A$49.5 million (USD 32 million).

The law will be enforced in a phased approach, with a trial set to begin in January and full implementation scheduled for one year. This ban positions Australia as a test case for other governments around the world considering similar measures due to concerns over the negative mental health effects of social media on young people.

While some countries, like France and certain US states, have passed age restrictions with parental consent, Australia’s law imposes an absolute ban for children under 16. The law is a significant victory for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his centre-left government, as it aligns with public sentiment, with 77% of Australians supporting the move.

However, the Bill has faced resistance from privacy advocates and child rights organisations. Critics argue that it could have unintended consequences, such as limiting access for vulnerable groups like LGBTQIA and migrant youth, who rely on social media for support.

Despite these concerns, parent groups, as well as mental health advocates, strongly support the law, citing the need to protect children from the harmful effects of social media, including cyberbullying and body image issues.

The law may strain Australia’s relationship with key ally the US, particularly with tech mogul Elon Musk, who criticised it as a potential means of controlling internet access. It also builds on Australia’s previous measures targeting Big Tech, including forcing platforms to pay for media content and regulating scams.