Concerns about the negative impact of social media usage on young people have been growing recently, prompting governments to take action. Stricter regulations on internet use, particularly for those under 18, are now on the agenda… Here are the details…

Australia’s social media ban plan

This groundbreaking bill, presented to the Australian Parliament, aims to prohibit social media use for children under 16. If approved, the law will take effect 12 months after its passage.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, “Social media is harming our children, and I’m saying enough is enough.” Albanese believes Australian parents will support the regulation, telling their children, “Sorry, it’s against the law.”

Prime Minister Albanese clarified that there would be no criminal penalties for users. However, platforms will be responsible for enforcing the age restriction. Social media giants like Facebook and Instagram must demonstrate they have taken ‘reasonable steps’ to ensure the age limit is enforced. The new regulation will prevent children under 16 from opening accounts, even with parental permission.

Albanese also noted that this regulation would not solve everything immediately. “We have laws preventing those under 18 from buying alcohol, and sometimes these rules are broken, but these laws set boundaries for our society and help achieve positive outcomes.” Support is also expected from Australian states and territories if the bill is approved.

So, what do you think about this radical decision? Is it right to take such measures to mitigate social media’s effects on young people? Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments!