In a significant move to protect young users online, Australia is planning to implement a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16. The proposed legislation aims to curb early exposure to potentially harmful content, reduce cyberbullying, and address mental health concerns associated with social media use among minors.
This initiative would require social media platforms to enforce stricter age verification processes, ensuring that children below the legal age do not have access to these platforms. Supporters argue that the measure will promote safer digital habits and help mitigate the risks of online exploitation, while critics have raised concerns about the practicality of enforcing age restrictions and the potential for limiting young people’s digital engagement.
Australia’s bold proposal follows a global trend where governments are increasingly scrutinizing the impact of social media on young users and exploring measures to create safer online environments. If implemented, the policy would make Australia one of the strictest countries in terms of regulating social media access for minors.
