Posted:
21.11.2024 10:10:00
Australia banned children under 16 from using social media
A bill passed by the Australian government bans children younger than 16 from using social networks. An announcement to that effect was published on the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s website, RIA Novosti reports.
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“The Albanese Government is introducing world leading legislation to establish 16 as the minimum age for access to social media […] This will ensure better protection for young people during a critical period of development,” the press release states.
The Bill puts the onus on social media platforms, not parents or young people, to take reasonable steps to ensure fundamental protections are in place that prevent children under 16 from registering. The fine for non-compliance can be as high as 49.5 million Australian Dollars ($32.3 million).
The ban covers Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, and X. However, children can still use messengers, health and education resources, as well as play online games.
“The Albanese Government is introducing world leading legislation to establish 16 as the minimum age for access to social media […] This will ensure better protection for young people during a critical period of development,” the press release states.
The Bill puts the onus on social media platforms, not parents or young people, to take reasonable steps to ensure fundamental protections are in place that prevent children under 16 from registering. The fine for non-compliance can be as high as 49.5 million Australian Dollars ($32.3 million).
The ban covers Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, and X. However, children can still use messengers, health and education resources, as well as play online games.
