Australians react to social media ban for under-16s: Video
Australia’s new legislation banning social media access for under-16s has sparked a mix of praise and skepticism among citizens, with many questioning how the groundbreaking law will be enforced.
The bill, which passed parliament with bipartisan support on Thursday, aims to protect children from online harm by prohibiting platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and X from allowing users under the age of 16 to sign up.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the move as the "right thing to do," even if enforcement challenges remain.
Melbourne residents shared varied perspectives on the issue. Abbie Cubbon, 25, said the law has “the right intentions,” adding that social media exposes young users to content that may not be appropriate for developing minds.
Arthur McCormack, 19, echoed these sentiments, recalling how some of the content he encountered online was “traumatic.”
While supportive of the ban, he questioned its feasibility: “I’m not sure how really it will be carried out.”
Other residents were more critical. Luke Rushbrook-Stock, 24, highlighted concerns about the practicalities of enforcement and potential privacy issues. “It might mean a lot of older Australians are going to have to provide ID to these digital companies,” he warned.
Meanwhile, Emily Beall, 41, doubted the law’s effectiveness, saying, “I don’t think there’s a way really even to police it. Like, I don’t think it will actually change a lot.”
Social media companies and advocacy groups have also weighed in. Industry giants criticised the legislation as rushed and ambiguous, with many questions left unanswered. UNICEF Australia cautioned that the ban might push children into less regulated and potentially more harmful online spaces.
Social media firms that fail to comply face penalties of up to AUD 50 million (USD 32.5 million).
