Children under the age of 16 will be blocked from using social media platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat under the legislation.
The ban will come into effect in a year’s time. Australia is the first nation in the world to ban children from social media.
The legislation requires social media companies to ensure people under 16 do not have accounts on their platforms.
Companies that breach the minimum age obligation will face penalties of up to $49.5 million. There are no penalties for parents or young people for breaches.
While the bill doesn’t specify which social media platforms will be included in the ban, Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has confirmed it will apply to TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit and X “at a minimum”.
Young people will have continued access to messaging and online gaming, as well as access to services which are health and education related, like Headspace, Kids Helpline, and Google Classroom and YouTube.
And it will now officially become law.
We’re doing everything we can to keep our kids safe. pic.twitter.com/1Eiy8pv7av
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) November 28, 2024
The Government says the bill was designed following extensive feedback from young Australians, parents, experts, industry, community organisations and state and territory governments.
“We know social media is doing social harm,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
“We want Australian children to have a childhood, and we want parents to know the Government is in their corner.
“This is a landmark reform. We know some kids will find workarounds, but we’re sending a message to social media companies to clean up their act.”
The crossbench and some opposition MPs opposed the legislation, amid concerns over how the ban would work and how little time had been given to scrutinise the laws.
