Australia Bans Social media for children

On September 10, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a proposal to ban children from using social media, with the government set to introduce legislation in 2024 to regulate access for minors.

Albanese emphasized the harmful effects of social media on children, citing concerns that it distracts them from building real-world relationships and engaging in meaningful experiences. His statement highlights the growing anxiety over the influence of digital platforms on young minds.

The proposed legislation will establish a minimum age for social media usage, with Albanese expressing a preference for setting the age at 16. This initiative will be crafted in collaboration with Australia’s states and territories to ensure broad agreement.

Public sentiment in Australia appears to support such restrictions. A survey conducted in August by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation revealed that 61 percent of Australians are in favor of limiting social media access for individuals under 17.

Simultaneously, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas is exploring additional legal measures to protect younger children. He has commissioned former federal judge Robert French to investigate the possibility of banning children under 14 from accessing social media platforms.

French’s findings will play a crucial role in shaping the upcoming legislation, as the federal government plans to incorporate his recommendations into its policy framework.

The government’s focus on safeguarding children from the negative impacts of social media reflects broader concerns about the digital environment’s influence on youth development.