In a landmark decision, Australia has passed a law that effectively bans social media use for children under 16, making it the first country to impose such sweeping rules. . The move comes in response to growing concerns over the impact of social media on the mental health and well-being of young people, particularly with rising cases of cyberbullying, addiction and exposure to inappropriate content.

What is the new law of Australia?

The new law, which was passed in Parliament earlier this week, requires social media platforms to implement strict age verification measures, ensuring that children under 16 are not allowed to use Facebook, Instagram, TikTok etc. Unable to access or create accounts on major social media platforms. Snapchat. The rules are scheduled to take effect in early 2025, giving both social media companies and parents time to adapt to the changes.

Under the new law, social media companies will get a grace period of one year to comply with age verification requirements. With the law coming into force in 2025, platforms will be obliged to implement systems to detect and block users under the age of 16, and will face penalties if they fail to do so. Companies that do not follow the new rules may have to face heavy fines. Repeat violations may result in increased fees, which could reach up to $50 million (AUD). These penalties are aimed at ensuring that social media platforms take necessary steps to protect children and comply with the new era restrictions.

Social media companies are now under pressure to follow the new rules. They will need to develop and implement advanced age verification technologies to ensure that children cannot access their platforms. Some companies have already begun exploring more sophisticated ways of verifying users’ age, including facial recognition and digital ID systems, although the implementation of such technology raises concerns about privacy and data security.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the new law as a major step forward in protecting the country’s youth. He said that this law is an important measure to protect the mental and emotional health of children in the digital age.

Impact of social media on children

This sweeping legislation is the result of extensive research by Australian health experts, who have been warning about the dangers of social media for children. Studies have linked excessive use of social media to higher rates of depression, anxiety and sleep disorders in young people. A 2023 report from the Australian Psychological Society revealed that nearly 40 percent of teens reported feeling anxious or depressed because of their online interactions. Cyberbullying and the pressure of social comparison have been identified as major contributors to these mental health challenges.

critics say

The ban has faced considerable opposition from some quarters, with critics arguing that it violates children’s rights to free expression and access to information. Digital rights advocates have warned that the law could create black markets for social media accounts, where children could potentially bypass age verification systems with false information. Additionally, there are concerns that the law could alienate youth, who view social media as an important tool for social interaction, learning, and self-expression.

While Australia’s social media ban is unprecedented, experts are watching closely to see whether other countries will follow suit. With the global reach of social media platforms and growing awareness of their impact on youth, it remains to be seen whether similar rules will be adopted elsewhere.

As the legislation takes shape, one thing is clear: Australia has taken a bold step to meet the complex challenges of the digital age, while prioritizing the health and safety of its young people in a rapidly changing world.