Australia launches bill banning social media for under 16
The bill proposes a fine of up to AU$50 million on social media platforms if they fail to uphold the ban. It also does not allow for an exemption for parents to allow their children to use social media.
Australia’s proposed legislation includes some of the toughest restrictions a country wants to place on social media platformsImage: HalfPoint Images/IMAGO
Australia’s government on Thursday introduced a bill in parliament that aims to ban social media for children under 16.
As per the proposed bill, flouting the ban would lead to a fine of up to AU$50 million (€30.8 million, $32 million).
The center-left government plans to try out an age-verification system that is likely to use biometrics or government identification to enforce the rule.
If passed, the landmark law would outline some of the toughest controls so far on social media platforms imposed by a country.
“This is a landmark reform. We know some kids will find workarounds, but we’re sending a message to social media companies to clean up their act,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement.
The opposition Liberal Party is expected to support the bill. However, independents and the Green party have demanded more details on the proposed law.
The bill proposes a fine of up to AU$50 million on social media platforms if they fail to uphold the ban. It also does not allow for an exemption for parents to allow their children to use social media.
TechnologyAustralia
Australia launches bill banning social media for under 16
The bill proposes a fine of up to AU$50 million on social media platforms if they fail to uphold the ban. It also does not allow for an exemption for parents to allow their children to use social media.
Australia’s proposed legislation includes some of the toughest restrictions a country wants to place on social media platformsImage: HalfPoint Images/IMAGO
Australia’s government on Thursday introduced a bill in parliament that aims to ban social media for children under 16.
As per the proposed bill, flouting the ban would lead to a fine of up to AU$50 million (€30.8 million, $32 million).
The center-left government plans to try out an age-verification system that is likely to use biometrics or government identification to enforce the rule.
If passed, the landmark law would outline some of the toughest controls so far on social media platforms imposed by a country.
“This is a landmark reform. We know some kids will find workarounds, but we’re sending a message to social media companies to clean up their act,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement.
The opposition Liberal Party is expected to support the bill. However, independents and the Green party have demanded more details on the proposed law.
