Australia Faces Backlash Over Landmark Social Media Ban For Under-16 Users

Platforms including TikTok, Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram), and Snapchat criticised the legislation, raising concerns over its rushed process and lack of clarity on enforcement.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the measure, acknowledging potential imperfections in its implementation.

Source : Facebook/Anthony Albanese

Social media platforms have criticised Australia's newly passed law prohibiting under-16s from joining their platforms, calling it a hastily introduced measure riddled with "many unanswered questions," as reported by AFP. The legislation, which received parliamentary approval on Thursday, aims to safeguard young users but has sparked a heated debate among tech companies, child welfare advocates, and policymakers.

UNICEF Australia expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the ban, warning it could drive children into "hidden and unregulated" corners of the internet, undermining efforts to ensure their online safety.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the measure, acknowledging potential imperfections in its implementation but asserting it was the "right thing to do" to protect young Australians. Drawing parallels to existing restrictions like alcohol age limits, Albanese emphasised that the move would lead to "better outcomes and less harm."

"We’ve got your back," Albanese assured Australian parents, underscoring the government’s commitment to children’s safety.

Under the new law, non-compliant platforms could face penalties of up to AUD 50 million ($ 32.5 million).

Tech Industry Pushback

Platforms including TikTok, Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram), and Snapchat criticised the legislation, raising concerns over its rushed process and lack of clarity on enforcement. TikTok warned that the ban might inadvertently push young users toward unsafe online spaces devoid of safeguards.

Meta called for thorough consultation to create a "technically feasible" framework that balances the needs of parents, teens, and the industry. Snapchat echoed concerns about the legislation’s vagueness but pledged to work with the government to craft a balanced implementation plan.

Broader Implications

Critics argue the legislation offers scant details on how age verification will work, sparking privacy concerns about the collection and handling of personal data. Social media companies have suggested that app stores, rather than individual platforms, should oversee age checks.

Exemptions for platforms like WhatsApp and YouTube, often used for educational and recreational purposes, are expected to be part of the rollout.

UNICEF Australia’s policy head, Katie Maskiell, cautioned that the ban might isolate children from essential digital resources, impacting their mental health and development.

“This risks driving children into less regulated spaces and restricting their access to valuable online tools,” she noted.

Voices of Young Creators

Teen journalist Leo Puglisi, founder of the 6 News streaming channel, also opposed the law. Puglisi, who began his journalism career at 11, highlighted how the ban could stifle young people's creativity and opportunities.

“This legislation risks silencing young innovators, no matter their passions or career goals,” Puglisi stated, vowing that 6 News would continue its operations.

Global Implications

Australia's move is being closely observed worldwide, with countries like Spain and U.S. states such as Florida contemplating similar restrictions. However, none have yet enacted such measures.

In China, restrictions have been in place since 2021, limiting minors to 40 minutes daily on platforms like Douyin and curbing online gaming.

The Australian law marks a bold step in regulating social media, but its long-term impact on child safety and digital freedom remains to be seen.