Australia sets minimum age for social media use: what we need to know

In a bold move aimed at protecting younger generations, Australia has announced an age limit for social media use.

According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the minimum age to access platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok will be set between 14 and 16 under a draft law due to come into force in 2024. This move aims to protect young people from the potentially harmful effects of social media, which Albanese considers a “scourge” on society.

Social networks: a “scourge” on society

The decision comes after the Australian government planned an age verification test to ensure the new rules are enforceable. Prime Minister Albanese expressed the desire to encourage children to spend more time in real physical and social activities, instead of being prisoners of screens.

While the initiative has received support from Conservative opposition leader Peter Dutton, who believes every day of delay puts children at risk, not everyone agrees with the government’s approach. Analysts and technology experts are skeptical about the effectiveness and technological applicability of this measure. Daniel Angus of the Queensland University of Technology described the plan as “reckless” and a potential error, and Toby Murray of the University of Melbourne raised concerns about the reliability of age verification methods.

The US has passed a similar law

While this initiative aligns with similar regulations in other countries, such as the US, where the Senate has approved a similar law for age 13, it remains to be seen how these measures will be implemented and enforced.

Australia’s decision to set the minimum age for social media at 14-16 underlines a growing concern for the well-being of younger generations in a digital age. While the initiative has good intentions, it will be essential to follow the evolution and real impact of this measure in practice.