Australia Plans to Strengthen Social Media Ban for Children

The Australian government intends to bolster existing laws that prohibit children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced. This move comes as observers note that the ban, implemented last December, appears to be failing to keep young individuals off platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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We’re working on that as a priority because this is something that other generations didn’t have to deal with, which is why it’s complex.

Albanese indicated to Parliament that strengthening the ban is a government priority, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by younger generations regarding digital engagement. He stated the government is actively reviewing the laws to ensure they are as robust as possible and that Australia's online safety commissioner has the necessary powers.

Australia was the first nation to enact such legislation, but other countries are now following suit. Britain recently revealed plans to ban under-16s from various platforms, citing concerns over harmful content and excessive screen time. Canada, Brazil, Indonesia, France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand, and South Korea are among those exploring or implementing similar age-based restrictions.

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are the laws as strong as possible?

Australia's eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, has previously considered legal action against major platforms, alleging insufficient efforts to remove underage accounts. Platforms failing to take reasonable steps to prevent young children from creating accounts could face fines of up to A$49.5 million (US$34 million).

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have every power at her disposal?

Experts suggest the government's proposed reforms are a response to evidence of the ban's ineffectiveness. Data released in March showed a significant percentage of underage children maintaining accounts on popular platforms. Studies also indicate high usage rates among teenagers on restricted sites. Some experts and regulators have expressed concerns about the adequacy of current enforcement powers, highlighting the need for stronger tools and resources.

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I do think it’s failing.