Read Write Web Australia has taken a pioneering step forward in digital governance. Now it has become the first country to require a social media usage restriction for anyone under age 16. The new law is effective at midnight local time in Sydney. This is a consequential moment in the nation’s effort to safeguard young people from dangerous online content that harms their health and well-being. This ban extends to all ubiquitous platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube and Reddit. It further covers streaming platforms like Kick and Twitch.
Defending the ban, the Australian government insists that it shields minors from sexually explicit material. Most importantly, it keeps them safe from the realities and dangers of social media. In Australia, there are an estimated five million children aged under 16, and the initiative aims to make the internet a safer place for children. Of these, one million of these children are age 10-15. That also means you’re overlooking a large and important demographic affected by this new rule.
While the campaign has received broad support from a variety of stakeholders, the campaign has alarmed young Australians. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner condemned the ban as a “cop-out.” They told us that it likely wouldn’t be enough to solve the root causes of social media use among minors. The legislation places the onus on the tech companies to implement and enforce the ban. If they don’t, they are liable for large financial penalties — up to A$49.5 million (US$32 million, £25 million).
As a result, parents and children will be exempt from criminal penalties for violating the ban, which places the onus on tech companies to roll out child verification measures. Snapchat, for example, recently reported that users will be able to confirm their age via bank accounts, photo ID, or selfies.
Noah Jones and Macy Neyland, two fearless Australian teens, are taking the law to their country’s highest court. They claim that it violates their First Amendment right to free speech. In rebuttal, they claim that social media is an extremely important outlet for connecting with friends and peers.
It’s a regular theme whenever I talk with other education friends and professional acquaintances from school. That last part hurts the most, because when I’m unable to stay in touch as often, I miss those relationships greatly.
The ban has received enthusiastic and angry responses from Australian teenagers. Many share their sense of anger and humiliation over the limits placed on their virtual communication. As one annoyed teen put it, “It’s very offensive” as another said, “I’ll live.” Let’s face it, some people are looking forward to being bored without their social media and just heading outside instead.
I could definitely see myself getting bored since I can’t scroll so I’ll have to go outside or do something.
Recently, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese encouraged youths to enjoy their time away from the internet. He urged them to “take full advantage” of these opportunities. He encouraged following your passions. Whether it’s taking up a new sport, learning a new instrument, or just finally reading that book that’s been gathering dust on the shelf, now’s the time!
“Start a new sport, learn a new instrument, or read that book that has been sitting there on your shelf for some time.” – Anthony Albanese
The ban’s consequences go deeper than just prohibition. Advocates say it may risk doing the opposite, pushing children toward unregulated corners of the internet. Advocacy groups have raised concerns about the harmful effects this could have on young people, especially those with disabilities. One young advocate even highlighted how taking away social media would endanger those very vulnerable people we’re trying to protect.
To someone young, disabled and socially isolated, having their social media access cut off represents serious, tangible damage. It removes important ties and networks of support.
Though critics claim that the motivations for the ban are laudable. They argue it misses the mark in terms of achieving real, systematic change about the complex matters of online safety. One influencer stated, “Social media companies owe a duty to make their platforms safe. The ban itself is a band-aid solution that doesn’t actually fix the issues.”
In response to the legislation’s challenges and potential pushback from tech companies, Anika Wells, Australia’s Minister for Communications, stated firmly:
We will not be intimidated by threats. We won’t back down in the face of legal threats. We won’t let big tech push us around. On behalf of Australian parents, we will fight to the end.
Australia’s choice could pave the way for other countries trying to address the same issues about how young people interact with social media. Other countries, such as Malaysia, Spain, Germany, and Denmark, have all introduced similar measures to protect children. Yet they are already planning for, or have already implemented, similar restrictions.
Innovative developments Australia is taking a leadership role with pioneering legislation. This emerging reality has opened an engaging conversation around digital rights and responsibilities. What the long-term impacts will be on children’s relationship with technology and social media is still unclear.