A world-first social media ban will come into effect in Australia in a year’s time. The legislation, passed by Parliament on Thursday 28th November 2024, aims to protect children under 16 from the harmful effects of platforms like Facebook and TikTok.
Key points of the social media ban:
- Age restrictions: Social media platforms will need to verify the age of users to ensure no one under 16 can sign up.
- Platforms affected: Popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, and X (formerly Twitter) will be subject to age limits.
- Exemptions: Messaging apps like Messenger Kids and WhatsApp, educational platforms like Google Classroom, and crisis support services like Kids Helpline will not be affected.
- Penalties: Companies that fail to comply with the age restrictions could face hefty fines of up to $49.5 million.
- Parental consent: Parents will not be able to provide consent for their children under 16 to use social media platforms.
Why is the social media ban being introduced?
Experts warn of the negative impacts of social media on young people, citing issues such as online harassment, bullying, inappropriate image sharing, and excessive screen time, which can harm sleep, learning, and relationships.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said families were concerned about the impact of social media on young people.
“This one’s for the mums and dads,” Albanese said as he announced the age limit in Canberra earlier in November.
“Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it.”
Are there any downsides to the social media ban?
While many Australians support the under-16 social media ban, concerns have been raised about potential negative human rights impacts, particularly for young people with disabilities who rely on social media for connection and community.
Children and Young People with Disability Australia CEO Skye Kakoschke-Moore said: “Social media can be a lifeline for young people with disability, providing one of the few truly accessible ways to build connections and find community.”
And the Australian Human Rights Commission said it had “serious reservations” about the ban, saying that while was designed to protect children from harm, it would likely have negative human rights impacts on young people.
What are other countries doing about social media?
Other countries are also taking steps to address the potential harms of social media. The UK has expressed interest in a similar ban on social media for under-16s. At the same time, the European Union introduced legislation in 2015 that bans under-16s from online services without parental consent, although countries have the option to opt out.
What do you think about the social media ban?
Covering Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide and printed free magazine for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions & things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD.
