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Social media companies in Australia may face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars (around USD 32.5 million) under proposed laws requiring platforms to block access for users under 16.
Introduced in parliament on Thursday, the legislation aims to hold companies like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and X accountable for preventing children from using their services.
The proposed rules also include robust privacy protections, mandating that social media platforms delete any data collected during age verification.
Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland said the legislation prioritizes the “safety and mental health” of Australians, placing responsibility squarely on social media companies instead of parents or children.
If passed, the law would allow tech companies a one-year grace period to implement compliance measures. However, experts have raised concerns about the feasibility of enforcing strict age limits.
While social media firms have expressed their willingness to cooperate, they have cautioned against hasty legislation without sufficient consultation. Analysts also question whether platforms can reliably verify users’ ages without compromising privacy.
Some platforms, like YouTube, will be exempt from the proposed restrictions due to their educational utility. Messaging services such as WhatsApp and online gaming platforms are also excluded.
Rowland emphasized that these exemptions reflect the diverse ways young people use technology for communication and learning.
Australia’s proposal joins a growing list of international efforts to tighten social media access for minors. In June, Spain introduced a law banning users under 16 from social media.
Similarly, Florida will enforce a law in January prohibiting children under 14 from creating accounts. In both cases, the methods for verifying users’ ages remain unresolved.
Social media platforms, once praised for fostering connection and information sharing, have come under scrutiny in recent years. Issues like cyberbullying, the spread of harmful content, and election interference have tarnished their reputations, prompting governments worldwide to push for stricter regulations.
UNICEF Australia welcomed the intent behind the legislation but warned it is not a “solve-all” solution. Katie Maskiell of UNICEF said more comprehensive strategies are needed to protect children online. She also cautioned that strict age bans could drive young users to unregulated and potentially unsafe online spaces.
As Australia debates these measures, the proposed laws represent one of the world’s toughest stances on safeguarding children in the digital age. Whether these rules will set a global standard or face significant hurdles in enforcement remains to be seen.
