Australia is moving closer to banning social media for children under 16, with the lower house of Parliament passing a bill despite opposition from Google and Meta. The Prime Minister emphasizes the risks to children’s physical and mental health from excessive social media use, seeking support from parents. The proposed law would require social media platforms to have age-verification protections in place, with potential fines for non-compliance. There are plans to trial an age-verification system, but concerns have been raised about privacy and human rights implications.
Google, Meta, TikTok, and X have all expressed reservations about the ban, calling for more consultation and arguing that it could negatively impact children. However, public opinion and media outlets overwhelmingly support the move. Various stakeholders, including youth advocates and parent groups, have differing views on the ban, with some arguing it could cut off important social connections for teenagers. Opposition from the Greens, far-right lawmakers, and the Australian Human Rights Commission has also been noted.
Despite some pushback, the bill has bipartisan support in Parliament, with the government aiming to pass it before the end of the parliamentary year. The legislation stems from concerns raised during a parliamentary inquiry into social media’s impact on children, including instances of cyberbullying and self-harm. Overall, the debate highlights the challenge of balancing children’s safety and well-being with their right to self-expression and participation in society.
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