Canberra: In a bold move to protect the younger generation, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced plans to introduce legislation this year to restrict children’s access to social media and other digital platforms. The proposed law aims to set a minimum age of 16 for social media use, addressing growing concerns about the negative impact of these platforms on young people’s mental health and social development.
“Social media is causing social harm and taking children away from real friends and real experiences,” Albanese stated on Tuesday. The legislation will be developed in consultation with state and territory governments to ensure a unified national approach.
A recent survey by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation revealed that 61% of Australians support restricting social media access for individuals under 17. This public backing underscores the urgency of the issue and the widespread desire for regulatory action.
In a related effort, South Australia’s Premier Peter Malinauskas has commissioned former federal judge Robert French to explore legal avenues for banning children under 14 from social media. The federal government will consider French’s findings when drafting the new legislation.
Albanese emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that it is crucial to protect children from the potential harms of social media, including online bullying and exposure to inappropriate content. The government plans to trial age verification technology to enforce these restrictions effectively.
This legislative push reflects a broader trend of governments worldwide seeking to mitigate the adverse effects of social media on young people. As the debate continues, the Australian government remains committed to ensuring that children have more opportunities for real-life interactions and experiences.
