Australia Pushes Forward with Strict New Social Media Ban for Children
Australia has passed a landmark law that will force social media giants to prevent children under 13 from having accounts. The legislation, which met strong opposition from some platforms, aims to protect children from the potential harms of social media, but its feasibility and long-term impact remain a topic of debate.
A Controversial Move
The new law, passed with bipartisan support, requires social media companies to take “reasonable measures” to verify the age of users. Companies that fail to comply face hefty fines of up to $50 million.
“I will find a way,” declared 12-year-old Angus Lydom, expressing the sentiment among many young Australians who see this legislation as a hurdle rather than a barrier. His friend, 11-year-old Elsie Arkinstall, believes social media has a place in children’s lives, particularly for learning new skills and watching educational content.
p>”You can’t learn all this from books,” she points out, highlighting the concerns some parents share about limiting children’s access to platforms they view as valuable learning tools.
A Global Trend?
Social media giant Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, expressed disappointment that the law did not take into account existing efforts by the industry for age-appropriate content and experiences. However, the company has pledged to comply with the new regulations.
Perhaps
The Australian law has sparked international interest, as other countries grapple with similar concerns regarding online safety for children. Spain, for example, is considering implementing similar restrictions. The American state of Florida also plans to ban children under 14 from using social media, although the implementation details are yet to be established. China already restricts access for minors and requires identity verification for users.
Social media providers express concerns about the technical challenges of implementing these new rules. Some warn that setting up an effective age verification system may border on impossible. Others question whether this law is more symbolic than practical.
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Unclear Path Forward
The Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has championed the bill as a way to protect young people from the negative effects of social media. Albanese has slammed social networks as a source of pressure, anxiety, and vulnerabilities to scams and online predators. He hopes the ban will encourage children to engage in more traditional, offline activities.
The new law emphasizes the need for age verification and understanding the digital landscape. However, many argue that Down Under needs to invest in more robust online safeguards and implementation.
While the new legislation marks a significant move towards protecting children online, it also opens up a debate on the effective balance between online safety and freedom of access. Revisions are to be expected over the coming months as Australian regulators work to clarify the practical aspects of the law.
How effective will age verification technologies be in enforcing Australia’s social media ban for children under 13?
## Australia’s Social Media Ban: A Shield or a Shackle?
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing Australia’s groundbreaking new law that bans children under 13 from using social media platforms. Joining us is Dr. Emily Carter, a child psychologist and expert in digital safety. Dr. Carter, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Carter:** It’s my pleasure.
**Interviewer:** Australia is the first country to implement such a strict ban. What do you make of this legislation?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s certainly a bold move. There’s no doubt that social media presents unique risks for young children, from cyberbullying to exposure to inappropriate content. This law reflects a growing global concern about the impact of social media on child development and well-being. [[1](https://www.npr.org/2024/11/28/g-s1-36142/australia-social-media-ban-children)]
**Interviewer:** But some critics argue it’s an overreach, impossible to enforce, and that it unfairly punishes responsible companies. What are your thoughts?
**Dr. Carter:**
I understand those concerns. Verifying age online is notoriously difficult, and there’s a risk that determined children will find ways around the system. However, I believe the potential benefits outweigh the concerns. The hefty fines associated with non-compliance will hopefully incentivize platforms to invest in robust age verification technologies.
**Interviewer:** Some, like 12-year-old Angus Lydom, mentioned in recent reports [[1](https://www.npr.org/2024/11/28/g-s1-36142/australia-social-media-ban-children)], feel this is a barrier rather than a safety measure. They argue social media offers valuable learning opportunities. What do you say to them?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s true that social media can be a valuable tool for learning and socialization, even for young children. However, the risks associated with early exposure, especially without proper guidance and support, are significant. We need to prioritize their mental health and development.
**Interviewer:** Do you think other countries will follow Australia’s lead?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s certainly possible. This law sets a precedent, and other countries are certainly watching closely. The debate about the role of social media in children’s lives is far from over.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights Dr. Carter. This is definitely a conversation that will continue.
**Dr. Carter:** My pleasure.