Children’s Safety Comes First: Australia Introduces New Online Law

Australia is set to become one of the first countries in the world to ban children under 16 from creating accounts on social media platforms. Starting December 10, platforms such as Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube will be required to take “reasonable steps” to prevent children from registering, BBC reports.

Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that, despite opposition from tech giants, the government will not back down from this decision. According to her, research has shown that social media can harm children.

The minister noted that several countries are closely watching Australia’s approach. While the U.S. government may intervene, Wells emphasized: “We are fulfilling our duty to Australians.”

Although the new law has public support, some experts have criticized it. Some argue that strengthening monitoring and improving digital literacy might be more effective than an outright ban. In addition, online games like Roblox are excluded from the restriction, which has also drawn criticism.

The government plans to review the ban over the next two years and make adjustments based on results.