Australia is moving towards setting an age limit for children to access social media platforms due to growing concerns about the impact on mental and physical health.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently revealed plans to trial age verification technology before introducing new legislation, which would likely set the minimum age for social media access between 14 and 16 years.
“We want to see kids off their devices and onto footy fields, swimming pools, and tennis courts,” Albanese told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
He emphasized the government’s aim to encourage children to engage in real-world activities and reduce potential harm caused by social media.
This law would make Australia one of the first countries globally to impose such restrictions, in response to rising public and political concern about social media’s effects on children, particularly teenagers.
Australia is among the most connected countries in the world, with 80% of its 26 million citizens using social media. However, this has raised concerns about the mental health impacts on young users. A recent parliamentary inquiry heard evidence suggesting a strong link between social media use and deteriorating mental health in teenagers.
At the same time, questions have been raised about the enforceability of such restrictions and whether they could lead to unintended consequences. For instance, younger children might attempt to access social media platforms in secret, potentially exposing themselves to less regulated and riskier corners of the internet.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner echoed these concerns, cautioning that limiting social media access could restrict young people’s access to critical support networks. The Commissioner also warned that bans might push children towards less visible, unregulated online spaces, increasing their vulnerability to harm.
Social media companies, such as Meta (which owns Facebook and Instagram), have expressed their concerns about the proposed laws. Meta maintains a self-imposed minimum age of 13 for its platforms and argues that instead of restricting access, empowering young people and providing parental control tools could be a better solution.
DIGI, an industry group representing social media platforms, urged the government to consult experts, including mental health professionals and representatives from marginalized communities, such as LGBTQIA+ groups, before implementing any bans. They stress that banning access could have negative consequences for young people who rely on social media for communication, support, and self-expression.
Critics of the proposed legislation argue that rather than banning children from social media entirely, the focus should be on improving the quality of digital experiences for young users. They point out that online spaces are crucial for learning, socializing, and entertainment, and suggest that regulatory efforts should prioritize ensuring these environments are safe and age-appropriate.
The Australian Research Council’s Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child has called for a “children’s internet”—an online environment specifically designed with young users in mind. Their Manifesto for a Better Children’s Internet advocates for the development of high-quality, age-appropriate content and services, as well as the implementation of robust guardrails to protect children within the digital landscape.
As Australia contemplates one of the most restrictive age limits for social media use in the world, the debate highlights the need for balance. Policymakers, industry leaders, and child advocates are all weighing in on how best to protect children’s well-being while acknowledging the growing role the internet plays in their lives.
With input from the Guardian, Sky News.
