Australia has officially implemented a landmark law banning children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, starting from midnight. The regulation affects ten of the world’s largest social media companies, which are now legally required to block accounts belonging to children under 16 or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($33 million).
The legislation aims to protect young Australians from potential mental health risks and social pressures associated with social media use, including exposure to endless feeds, targeted algorithms, and harmful content. Parents and child welfare advocates have welcomed the move as a proactive measure to safeguard children, while technology companies and free speech proponents have criticized it as overly restrictive.
The ban comes amid growing global concern about the impact of social media on children’s emotional well-being, academic performance, and physical health. Australia’s approach is being closely monitored by other nations considering similar age-based restrictions, potentially setting a precedent for child-focused online safety laws worldwide.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the policy in a video message intended for schools, encouraging children to use their time productively rather than spending hours scrolling on phones. He suggested engaging in new sports, learning musical instruments, reading, and spending quality time with friends and family in person. The government emphasizes that the law is not only about limiting screen time but also fostering healthier lifestyles and real-world social interactions for young Australians.
