Australia's Senate has passed a law banning children under 16 from using social media platforms. The legislation, approved yesterday with 34 votes to 19, will take effect in late 2025. 

The law marks the strictest age restriction for social media use worldwide. Previously the Australian government said the proposed legislation would be introduced in Parliament during its final two weeks of session. 

How will the ban work?

Starting in late 2025, companies are required to take reasonable measures to block underage users. The Social Media Minimum Age Bill requires platforms to ensure that users are at least 16 before accessing social media platforms. According to Australian Communications Minister, Michelle Rowland, the ban could affect platforms including Snapchat, TikTok, X, Instagram, Reddit, and Facebook. YouTube and platforms focused on messaging, online games, education, and health are exempt.

Social media platforms must prove they’ve taken “reasonable steps” to block underage users but cannot require government-issued ID for age verification. Companies found in violation risk fines of up to AUD $50 million (USD $32.4 million). Parents and young users breaching the rules will not face penalties.

Reason for the ban and possible timeline

Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese cites concerns over the mental health impact of social media on young Australians. “There is a clear, causal link between the rise of social media and harm to the mental health of young Australians….We want our kids to have a childhood and parents to know we have their backs,” he said. In a press conference earlier this month, Albanese said, “Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it."

The law will come into effect in 12 months, giving the government time to test age-verification technologies. A trial for enforcement methods begins in January. A year-long trial of age-verification technologies will begin in January 2025, with the government seeking to balance enforcement with privacy concerns.

Global implication 

The legislation comes amid a growing global debate on social media’s effects on youth. Similar age restrictions exist in countries like France and some U.S. states, though Australia’s minimum age of 16 is the highest. France, for example, requires parental consent for children under 15, though studies show many young users bypass restrictions using VPNs. 

The ban also positions Australia as a test case for stricter social media regulation, with other nations like Norway and the UK considering similar measures. However, the legislation has faced criticism.

A coalition of 140 experts recently urged the government to reconsider its stance via an open letter. They argue that banning apps could push children to riskier alternatives, prevent them from forming online social connections, and limit access to valuable resources. Despite the concerns from critics, 77% of Australians reportedly support the ban.

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