Australia’s pioneering age restriction for social media usage, based upon legislation drafted in South Australia, is in effect as of today. Social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, Twitch, X, YouTube, Kick, and Reddit, are required to implement measures to bar individuals under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining an account.
This legislative move, now effective across the nation, focuses on safeguarding the mental and physical health of youths by mitigating the inherent risks associated with social media usage. Among these risks are the pressures brought on by constant connectivity and the consumption of content that could be detrimental to their health.
The initiative for these restrictions was inspired by model legislation crafted by the former Chief Justice of the High Court, the Honourable Robert French AC. Appointed by Premier Peter Malinauskas in May 2024, French conducted a thorough legal review concerning the age limits on social media usage. His findings, known as the French Review, were subsequently presented to the National Cabinet in late 2024.
Premier Peter Malinauskas shared, “There is no more important resource than our young people, and it is our first duty to protect them. This change will improve their health, wellbeing and academic performance. We are exceptionally proud that South Australian leadership has seen this legislative change now in effect nationwide, with the rest of the world now watching closely.”
The law also aims to empower parents in their oversight of their children’s social media usage by reducing the impact of addictive algorithms. “Fundamentally, this legislation is all about empowering parents to be able to say no to their children being force-fed harmful content through addictive algorithms,” shared Malinauskas.
One significant social aspect addressed by this new law is the reduction of peer pressure on children to possess social media accounts to remain socially relevant among their peers. “No longer will families face the peer pressure of their children needing a social media account just to keep up with the other kids in class.”
The enforcement of this age limit is a critical step in adapting to the pervasive role that digital platforms play in daily life. By legislating these age restrictions, the government aims to provide a safer online environment that promotes healthier social interactions and the overall development of young people.
Social media companies are now obligated to verify the ages of users and effectively implement age-gating measures to comply with the new law. The approach taken by Australia serves as a model that could potentially influence other nations to consider similar protections for their younger populations.
As this legislation takes effect, communities and families across Australia anticipate a noticeable shift in the online engagement habits of young people, aiming for a balance that supports their growth and wellbeing in a digitally-driven age.
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