Australia is moving forward with plans to introduce a minimum age for children to access social media. The government has announced it will trial age verification technology, with the goal of banning young users from platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The restriction would apply to children aged between 14 and 16. If implemented, Australia could become one of the first countries to impose such a rule.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the need to protect young people from the dangers of online bullying and harmful content. “Parents are demanding action,” he said in a statement, highlighting the mental health risks children face. He promised that legislation for age verification would be introduced by the end of the year.
The proposed law comes at a time when many countries are looking for ways to protect children online. The Australian opposition has also promised a social media ban for anyone under 16 if they win the next election. Meanwhile, in Europe, data regulations already set similar age limits.
Despite government support, some experts have voiced concerns. Lisa Given, a technology expert from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, warned that such restrictions could prevent children from accessing helpful online resources.
South Australia is also considering fines for social media companies that do not block users under the age of 14.
