Legislation Passes with Strong Support
Australia has taken a groundbreaking step by passing a bill that legally restricts social media access for anyone under the age of 16. This decision, made by lawmakers in both chambers of the Australian parliament, positions the country among those with the most stringent social media regulations globally. The government emphasizes that this measure aims to safeguard the mental health and overall well-being of children.
Implementation Timeline and Severe Penalties
Under this new law, social media platforms like X, Instagram, and TikTok will be barred from allowing account creation for users aged 16 and under. The legislation will take effect by the end of next year, giving platforms a year to devise strategies for enforcement. Companies that fail to comply risk incurring hefty penalties amounting to 50 million Australian dollars (€30.8 million), escalating the stakes for social media operators in Australia.
Setting a Global Precedent
Australia’s move to impose the highest age limit for social media access marks a significant shift, following previous efforts in other countries. While the US state of Utah’s attempt to restrict social media usage was deemed unconstitutional, France has implemented a law requiring parental consent for children under 15 to use social media. The bipartisan backing in Australia underscores a strong consensus, with the Senate vote resulting in a comfortable passage of 34 to 19, following an even more decisive approval from the House of Representatives with 102 votes in favor.
Mixed Reactions to the Legislation
Despite widespread political support, the law has faced criticism from child welfare advocates and mental health experts who warn of potential negative ramifications. Senator David Shoebridge, representing the minority Greens party, cautioned that the ban could isolate vulnerable children who rely on social media for support, particularly emphasizing concerns for those in regional communities and the LGBTQI population.
Calls for Evidence-Based Policies
Critics argue that the legislation overlooks the positive role social media can play in fostering connection and mental health support among young individuals. Christopher Stone, the executive director of Suicide Prevention Australia, expressed concerns that the government is hastily pushing through legislation without fully considering its implications. He called for evidence-based policies that address the complexities of youth mental health, urging a more thoughtful approach to such responsible governance.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Guardian
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