Australia has passed a groundbreaking law, the Social Media Minimum Age bill, which bans children under 16 from using popular platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and X. The bill, aimed at protecting minors from mental health risks, inappropriate content, and addictive behaviors, was passed after overwhelming support in the House of Representatives (102-13) and a Senate vote of 34-19. Under the new law, social media platforms face fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars if they fail to prevent access by under-16s.
While many welcome the measure for its focus on child protection, critics argue it could isolate vulnerable groups, particularly LGBTQ+ minors, who rely on social media to find community and support. Social media companies now have a year to implement the ban, which will take effect in 2025.
