Sydney, Australia
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Thursday that the government will move to enforce a ban on social media access for children under 16, describing it as a pioneering measure.
“Social media is harming our kids, and it’s time to stop it,” Albanese said in a press briefing.
The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced to parliament this year, with the law taking effect 12 months after receiving approval.
No exceptions will be allowed, even with parental consent.
“The responsibility will rest with social media platforms to prove they are taking adequate measures to restrict access,” Albanese stated. “It won’t fall to parents or young people.”
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland indicated that affected platforms would include Instagram and Facebook from Meta Platforms, ByteDance’s TikTok, Elon Musk’s X, and likely Alphabet’s YouTube.
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