Breaking News: Australian Senate Approves Social Media Ban on Under-16s

Australia is set to implement the world's most stringent social media laws, banning children under 16 from accessing these platforms.

The legislation, which passed the Senate and awaits final approval in the House of Representatives, carries significant implications for tech companies and young users.

Once in effect, potentially in 12 months, the law will impose fines of up to A$50m (£25.7m; $32.5m) on platforms that fail to comply.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the move as a necessary step to protect children from social media's "harms" and to provide reassurance to parents.

The measure has garnered support from many parent groups, but it has also faced substantial criticism regarding its practicality, privacy concerns, and potential unintended consequences.

Key aspects of the legislation include:

• Platform Scope: The law will apply to social media platforms, while gaming and messaging services are exempt. Sites like YouTube that can be accessed without an account are also likely to be excluded. Specific platforms will be determined by Australia’s communications minister with advice from the Safety Commissioner.
• Age Verification: Platforms will need to introduce age-verification technologies, though the details remain undecided. Critics warn these methods might be ineffective or invasive, potentially relying on biometrics or personal identity data.
• Circumvention Risks: Children could evade the restrictions using VPNs, as seen in other countries with similar laws. Notably, children will face no penalties for violating the rules.

While early polling indicates significant support from Australian parents, some youth advocates argue the law excludes young people from conversations about its impact.

Tech giants like Google, Meta, Snap, and TikTok have criticised the legislation for its broad definitions, lack of specificity, and potential ineffectiveness.

Additionally, there are concerns about the legislation's compatibility with international treaties on human rights and technology regulation.

Similar efforts globally have faced challenges. France implemented a law requiring parental consent for social media access for children under 15, but nearly half of young users bypassed it with VPNs.

In the U.S., a comparable Utah law was struck down as unconstitutional. Still, Australia's move has sparked global interest, with Norway and the UK expressing potential interest in following suit.

Critics argue the law may drive children to less regulated corners of the internet and fail to address the root causes of social media risks.

The Albanese government maintains that despite potential loopholes, this step is a critical response to the responsibilities inherent in protecting children online.
Source: BBC