Australia's Parliament Advances Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

Australia's Parliament Advances Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

Australia is on the verge of implementing strict social media restrictions for minors. The House of Representatives passed a bill 102 to 13, with broad political support. Key points include:

Key Details:
- Bill targets social media platforms for children under 16
- Aims to protect children's mental and physical health
- 77% of Australians support the proposed ban

Proposed Regulations:
- Social media companies must implement age-verification protections
- Potential fines up to AUD 49.5 million for non-compliance
- Potential age verification methods may include biometrics or government ID

Challenges and Responses:
- Tech companies like Google and Meta oppose immediate implementation
- Youth advocates worry about children's rights to self-expression
- Senate committee recommends alternative age verification methods

Next Steps:
- Senate expected to debate the bill this week
- Aim to pass legislation by end of parliamentary year
- Progress report on age verification trial due by September 30, 2025

The proposed law represents one of the world's most comprehensive attempts to restrict social media access for children, reflecting growing concerns about digital platforms' impact on youth.