The Australian government has introduced groundbreaking legislation aimed at restricting children under 16 from using social media, with tech companies facing potential fines in the tens of millions for non-compliance.
On Thursday, Communications Minister Michelle Rowland tabled an amendment to the Online Safety Act in Parliament, describing it as “world-leading social media reform.” The proposed legislation sets 16 as the minimum age for accessing social media platforms, a move Rowland emphasized as a step toward protecting young Australians and supporting parents.
“This reform is about protecting young people and letting parents know we’ve got their backs,” Rowland stated.
Harsh Penalties for Non-Compliance
Under the new rules, social media platforms that fail to prevent underage users from creating accounts could face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars ($32.5 million). The ban is expected to apply to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter), although the government has yet to release a definitive list.
Crucially, the legislation shifts the responsibility onto social media companies rather than parents or children, requiring platforms to implement robust age verification measures. “Ultimately, this is about supporting a safer and healthier online environment for young Australians,” Rowland added.
Addressing Online Harms
The reform follows tragic cases of youth suicides linked to online bullying and increasing concerns from parents over the pressures of digital life. Advocates of the legislation praise it as a long-overdue step toward holding tech companies accountable for the safety of their young users.
Critics, however, argue the ban could inadvertently harm teens who rely on social media for support networks, potentially pushing them to bypass restrictions in unsafe ways. They contend that a more nuanced approach may be required to balance safety and accessibility.
Advanced Age Verification and Digital Duty of Care
To enforce the proposed age limit, the government has commissioned the UK-based Age Check Certification Scheme to trial advanced age verification technology. Additionally, the legislation introduces a “digital duty of care,” mandating providers to safeguard users and prevent online harm. Similar frameworks in other countries allow users to file complaints, triggering investigations and actions by authorities.
This reform aims to ensure that tech companies prioritize the well-being of their users and proactively address the risks posed by excessive online exposure. While the debate over its impact continues, the bill underscores Australia’s determination to set a global standard for online safety.
