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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted his country’s groundbreaking effort to ban social media access for users under 16 during an event in New York. He emphasized that the issues with social media’s impact on children are “constantly evolving.” Governments and technology companies are monitoring Australia’s initiative to become the first nation to restrict social media use for those younger than 16, beginning in December.
Albanese stated, “It’s not a perfect solution, but it is an important step forward,” during the “Protecting Children in the Digital Age” event on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen noted she was “inspired by Australia’s example,” adding, “In Europe, we’re observing and learning from your approach… it’s our responsibility to advance for the next generation.”
Passed into law in November 2024, Australia’s legislation intends to raise the minimum age for creating social media accounts from 13 to 16. The government cited research highlighting mental health risks associated with social media overuse among young teens, including misinformation, bullying, and negative body image portrayals. Albanese called this law a “sensible but overdue” measure to safeguard children during critical developmental periods.
He added, “The challenges we face are always changing, and different countries are addressing them in various ways.” The law will allow Australian teens an additional three years to experience life beyond algorithms and digital influence.
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