Australia proposes legal minimum age for children accessing social media
Associated PressSep 09
Australia Set to Ban Under-16s From Social Media
Above: Two women sit on a bench looking at their phone in central Sydney on November 7, 2024. Image copyright: David Gray/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Australia on Thursday announced plans to implement a minimum age requirement — likely between 14 and 16 — for social media access. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will convene the national cabinet on Friday to discuss introducing laws to impose penalties on non-compliant platforms.
Albanese said that the "world leading" legislation will be introduced in parliament during its final two weeks in session this year and will come into effect 12 months after being ratified. He said social media was "[harming] our kids and I’m calling time on it.”
The Spin
Narrative A
Social media age restrictions are a necessary step in protecting children from online harm and poor mental health. Parents are deeply concerned about their children's social media exposure and need government support to navigate these challenges. Australia's nationwide approach ensures consistent protection across all territories.
Narrative B
The proposed restrictions constitute a problematic and blunt approach that could harm rather than protect young people. This policy risks cutting off vulnerable youth from valuable online support communities and educational resources. Age verification measures might also push children toward more dangerous corners of the internet while seeking to evade restrictions.