Australia Plans to Ban Social Media Access for Children Under 16

All of Australia’s states and territories have agreed on a national plan to ban kids under 16 from using most social media platforms, like X, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced this world-first approach. He said that social media poses a risk to the safety and mental health of young Australians.

As reported by the Telegraph India; “Social media is doing social harm to our young Australians,” Albanese told reporters. “The safety and mental health of our young people has to be a priority.”

Australian PM shared a video on his official X platform, while talking about this initiative:

The plan will go to Parliament in the next two weeks. If it becomes law, the age ban will start one year later. This delay gives social media platforms time to set up the ban and work out privacy issues with age checks.

Some critics say the ban might push social media issues out of sight, but the Australian government thinks it will help protect kids, like the laws that limit alcohol to adults. Social media companies will be responsible for keeping kids under 16 off their platforms, with exceptions for educational and health-related services.

The legislation by the government of Australia is geeting a loy of support and appreciation from the world. Though some experts question its effectiveness with concerns about the potential harm of removing young people away from the social media platforms. They argue youth are using these platform for educational works and gain knowledge also.

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