Under-16 social-media ban — a great idea from Down Under
New York PostNov 08
Australia Bans Social Media for Under-16s
story
Above: Students look at their phones in Melbourne on Nov. 28, 2024, as Australia looks to ban children under 16 from social media. Image copyright: William West/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
The Australian Senate on Thursday approved legislation banning children under 16 from social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Reddit and X, with the law set to take effect in late 2025.
Social media companies face fines up to AU$50M ($32M) for failing to take reasonable steps to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms, though children and parents won't face penalties.
The Spin
Narrative A
The ban is necessary to protect young people's mental health and well-being from social media's harmful effects, including bullying and addiction, while giving parents peace of mind about their children's online safety.
Narrative B
The legislation is too blunt an instrument that could isolate vulnerable youth, push them to more dangerous parts of the internet, and fails to address the positive aspects of social media for young people's mental health and sense of connection.
