Australia moves to strengthen under-16 social media ban

Australia is tightening its existing ban on social media access for individuals under 16, introducing new legislation to bolster enforcement and grant its internet regulator greater authority to prosecute non-compliant tech companies. This move comes six months after the world-first restrictions took effect, as evidence suggests children are still accessing these platforms.

The eSafety Commissioner is currently investigating potential violations by five major platforms: Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Google's YouTube. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that too many children remain on social media and that tech firms are not adequately adhering to the ban. The government is urging bipartisan support for the bill, noting the original policy passed with cross-party agreement.

Proposed changes include doubling the maximum penalties for non-compliance to A$99 million (approximately $68.2 million USD). The eSafety Commissioner will also gain the power to demand internal company documents, such as board minutes and emails, to strengthen legal cases against platforms that fail to meet the requirements. Communications Minister Anika Wells accused some firms of deliberately undermining the ban using "dirty tricks."

Sydney resident Bill Wright expressed his approval of the government's enhanced efforts. "I was glad the government was taking more action to hold social media companies accountable," he said. Australia's approach to enforcing this ban is being closely monitored by numerous countries considering or implementing similar laws.

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I was glad the government was taking more action to hold social media companies accountable.