The Australian Parliament has passed the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, mandating that certain social media platforms restrict access for children under 16. The law is one of the strictest globally and aims to improve online safety for minors by requiring platforms to take “reasonable steps” to verify users’ ages.
Key Highlights of the New Law
Purpose and Scope: The bill amends the Online Safety Act 2021, requiring platforms such as Meta, Snapchat, TikTok, Reddit, and X (formerly Twitter) to prevent children under 16 from creating accounts. The law excludes platforms with educational purposes, such as YouTube, and messaging apps like WhatsApp.
Enforcement and Penalties: Social media companies have 12 months to comply, with enforcement led by the eSafety Commissioner. Companies failing to meet the standards face fines of up to A$50 million (approximately US$32 million). However, the law does not require users to upload government IDs for verification.
Public and Political Support: The bill, introduced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor government, passed with overwhelming support: 102 votes in favor and 13 against. It enjoys bipartisan support and public approval, with a recent YouGov survey showing 77% of Australians back the measure.
Implementation and Challenges
Age Verification: The bill requires platforms to adopt age-verification measures, leaving specifics to the eSafety Commissioner. Trials may include technologies like biometrics or government-issued IDs. However, platforms cannot compel users to provide personal documents such as passports.
Senate Review: The Senate will discuss the bill, aiming for final approval by year-end. The Senate committee has recommended further youth engagement to ensure the law balances protection with digital access rights.
Teen Concerns and Opposition
Youth Voices: Many teenagers worry that the law could disrupt social and familial connections. Youth advocates argue that banning social media is not the solution, stressing the need for safe online engagement instead of restrictions.
Industry Resistance: Tech giants, including Google and Meta, oppose the law, citing concerns about the lack of clarity around enforcement. They have requested delays until an ongoing age-verification trial concludes in mid-2025. Elon Musk, owner of X, criticized the law as a potential “backdoor” to broader internet control.
Global Interest and Concerns Over Youth Social Media Access
Reports from Australian media say that international interest in regulating youth access to social media is rising, with similar proposals being explored in Norway and Florida.
However, critics, including the Australian Human Rights Commission, argue that such laws may infringe on children’s rights to self-expression. Advocacy groups urge a more balanced approach that considers the varied needs of young users.
What’s Next?
If the Senate passes the bill, social media companies will have until late 2025 to fully implement the age-verification measures. Prime Minister Albanese has framed the law as part of a broader effort to improve children’s mental health and online safety.