Australia Sets Age Limit for Social Media Use

Australia has enacted a stringent law prohibiting children under 16 from accessing social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. This landmark legislation mandates that social media companies implement age verification measures within a year or face hefty fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars. Despite resistance from major tech firms such as Meta and Google, which argued the law was hastily crafted and problematic, the government justified the move as a necessary step to safeguard the mental and physical health of children.

The decision, supported by a significant majority of Australians, was made after intense parliamentary debates. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been a strong advocate of the legislation, emphasizing its role in supporting parents and protecting young people from potential online harm. However, the law has sparked concerns about social isolation among youths and its enforceability, with critics arguing it might only serve as a symbolic gesture.

The legislation excludes platforms like YouTube and WhatsApp, and the exact mechanisms for age verification remain unclear, raising questions about privacy and user data handling. While the law aims to give parents greater control over their children's internet use, it has faced criticism for potentially infringing on privacy rights and not allowing parents to decide what's best for their children. Nonetheless, the law reflects a growing international trend towards stricter online safety measures for minors, with similar considerations underway in countries like the UK.