New Delhi: The Australian Government has introduced legislation to enforce a minimum age of 16 years for social media platforms. This is a “world-leading initiative” aimed at protecting young Australians during their formative developmental stages, a government press release read.
The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 places the onus on social media companies to prevent underage users from accessing their platforms. The legislation will require these platforms to take reasonable steps to verify users’ ages and restrict access for those under 16.
The Bill acknowledges the importance of social media in young people’s lives and ensures continued access to messaging, online gaming, and essential services like Headspace, Kids Helpline, and educational platforms, the release stated. The law responds to changes in technology and services. Robust privacy provisions will require platforms to destroy personal information collected to safeguard all Australians’ personal information.
“We know social media is doing social harm,” stated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “We want Australian children to have a childhood, and we want parents to know the Government is in their corner.”
The legislation introduces significant penalties for online safety breaches, with fines of up to $49.5 million for systemic violations. It also classifies platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, and X as “age-restricted social media platforms.”
The Bill was developed in consultation with young Australians, parents, experts, industry stakeholders, community organizations, and state and territory governments, the government said Friday.