The Australian Senate has passed legislation setting 16 as the minimum age for social media use, part of efforts to protect children from online harm. The measure, among the strictest globally, shifts responsibility to platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram to enforce the age restriction, with penalties for non-compliance.
The bill reflects concerns about the impact of social media on young users’ mental health and safety. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the need for national leadership, citing widespread parental worries about social media’s influence. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland noted the policy aims to balance safety with developmental needs, following consultations with experts and communities.
Implementation will include a 12-month preparation period to ensure compliance systems are in place. However, critics, including the Digital Industry Group Inc., argue the policy may limit access to critical support networks for teenagers and call for solutions fostering digital literacy instead.
This legislation builds on Australia’s broader online safety initiatives, including addressing misinformation and deepfake content .
