Australia Passes Landmark Law Banning Children from Social Media

Australia’s Senate has enacted groundbreaking legislation to prohibit children and teenagers aged 16 and under from using social media platforms, marking a global first, Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

The legislation targets platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Reddit, and X. While the government aims to protect the mental health and well-being of youth, social media companies will not be required to demand government identification for age verification.

Fines of up to AU$50 million (approximately $32 million) can be imposed on platforms that fail to comply. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that social media is causing “social harm” and emphasized the importance of preserving childhood for Australian children. Research links social media use among youth to lower self-esteem and psychological issues.