Australian lawmakers are advancing a bill aimed at banning individuals under 16 from using social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
The legislation, passed in the lower house of parliament on Wednesday, now awaits debate in the Senate.
Under the proposed law, social media companies must take reasonable measures to block young teens from creating accounts or face fines of up to Aus$50 million (US$32.5 million).
However, industry representatives have criticized the legislation, calling it vague, rushed, and problematic.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who is pushing for the ban ahead of next year’s elections, has rallied support from Australian parents.
He described social media as a source of peer pressure, anxiety, scams, and online predators, emphasizing the need for young people to engage in physical activities like sports rather than excessive screen time.
Despite its global precedent as one of the strictest social media regulations, the legislation lacks clear enforcement mechanisms.
Regulators are expected to finalize the details over the next 12 months before the law takes effect.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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