Australia has passed one of the world’s strictest social media laws, banning children under 16 from accessing platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. According to a report by Reuters, the law aims to address mental health concerns among young people and will fine non-compliant tech companies up to AUD49.5 million (~RM143 million). A trial for enforcing this is set to begin in January, with the ban set to take effect a year later.
The Social Media Minimum Age Bill positions Australia as a global test case, following other countries like France and some U.S. states that have introduced restrictions requiring parental permission. However, unlike those partial measures, Australia’s law is absolute, reflecting widespread public support, with 77% of Australians backing the move. Critics, including privacy advocates and child rights groups, have expressed concerns about its implications.
A Meta spokesperson criticised the legislation as rushed, arguing it overlooked existing age-appropriate measures and failed to consider young users’ perspectives. Similarly, Snapchat parent Snap committed to compliance but raised concerns about balancing privacy, safety, and practicality during the 12-month implementation period.
YouTube, which is widely used in Australian schools, is exempt from the law. The exemption has sparked further debate, with critics like Sunita Bose of the Digital Industry Group calling the legislation premature, citing a lack of clear government guidance on enforcement methods.
Meanwhile, the Australian government’s decision to ban social media for under-16s has sparked discussions in Malaysia about tightening its own digital regulations. Experts highlight the urgent need for age-appropriate social media policies, citing concerns like cyberbullying, addiction and mental health issues. On the other hand, others have expressed concern regarding an outright bans, warning of unintended consequences like social isolation or teens circumventing restrictions.
