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HomeSoftwareAustralia social media ban: Australia's social media ban for under 16s divides...

Australia social media ban: Australia’s social media ban for under 16s divides opinion, draws Big Tech flak

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Australians on Friday expressed a mix of anger and relief following the introduction of a law banning social media use for children under 16. The government claims the law, approved late on Thursday, is a world-first initiative aimed at safeguarding minors. However, tech giants like TikTok argue it could push young users to “darker corners of the internet.”

After a national debate, the legislation has set a global benchmark as one of the strictest regulations targeting major tech companies. Under the law, platforms such as Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, as well as TikTok, must block minors from logging in or face penalties of up to A$ 49.5 million. A trial to determine enforcement methods will commence in January, with the full ban coming into effect by November 2025.

“Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them,” said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “We’re making sure that mums and dads can have that different conversation today and in future days.”

He highlighted the risks of excessive social media use, including mental and physical health challenges for children, particularly harmful depictions of body image affecting girls and misogynistic content targeting boys.

Public reaction in Sydney was divided, as reported by Reuters. Resident Francesca Sambas supported the move, stating, “I think that’s a great idea, because I found that the social media for kids (is) not really appropriate.”


At the same time, Shon Klose criticised the government, claiming, “I’m feeling very angry… How could they possibly make up these rules and these laws and push it upon the people?” Children also vowed to find ways around the ban, with 11-year-old Emma Wakefield admitting, “I feel like I still will use it, just secretly get in.”

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TikTok, among other platforms, condemned the legislation, calling it rushed. “It’s entirely likely the ban could see young people pushed to darker corners of the internet where no community guidelines, safety tools, or protections exist,” a TikTok spokesperson said. Meta echoed these concerns, labelling the legislative process as “predetermined.”While some view the ban as a crucial step in protecting children, others argue it risks escalating Australia’s already tense relationship with US-based tech giants.



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