Australia Passes Landmark Law Banning Under-16s from Social Media

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Commits to “Less Harm” for Children

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that a landmark law banning under-16s from social media will result in “less harm” for children. The crackdown on sites like Facebook, Instagram, and X, which was approved by parliament late Thursday, aims to lead to “better outcomes and less harm for young Australians”, according to Albanese.

Government Acknowledges Imperfections, But Stands by Decision

The government did not expect the new law to be implemented perfectly, Albanese said, likening it to a ban on alcohol for under-18s that can sometimes be circumvented. However, he emphasized that the government knows it is the “right thing to do” and is committed to making children’s safety a priority.

Platforms Face Fines for Non-Compliance

Social media firms, which face fines of up to Aus$50 million (US$32.5 million) for failing to comply with the new law, have described the legislation as “vague”, “problematic”, and “rushed”. The government has given platforms 12 months to implement the new rules, but currently offers almost no details on how the rules will be enforced.

Experts Raise Concerns Over Enforceability

The lack of clarity on enforcement has prompted concern among experts that the law will simply be a symbolic piece of legislation that is unenforceable. The government’s decision to give platforms 12 months to implement the new rules has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the law in protecting children’s safety.

Australian Parents Reassured by Government’s Commitment

Despite the concerns, Albanese sought to reassure Australian parents that the government is committed to their children’s safety. “We’ve got your back, is our message to Australian parents,” he said.

Conclusion

The new law marks a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to protect children from the potential harms of social media. While the law may not be perfect, the government’s commitment to making children’s safety a priority is clear. As the law takes effect, it remains to be seen whether it will be effective in achieving its goals.

FAQs

Q: What is the new law aimed at?
A: The new law bans under-16s from using social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Q: Why is the law being implemented?
A: The law aims to reduce the potential harms of social media on children, such as cyberbullying, online harassment, and exposure to inappropriate content.

Q: What are the consequences for social media platforms that fail to comply?
A: Social media firms that fail to comply with the new law face fines of up to Aus$50 million (US$32.5 million).

Q: How will the law be enforced?
A: The government has given platforms 12 months to implement the new rules, but currently offers almost no details on how the rules will be enforced.

Q: Will the law be effective in protecting children’s safety?
A: The effectiveness of the law in protecting children’s safety remains to be seen. Experts have raised concerns about the lack of clarity on enforcement and the potential for the law to be circumvented.