In a bold move to protect young minds online, Australia is pushing forward with a proposal to ban children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms.
The initiative, driven by mounting concerns over mental health, online safety, and data privacy, has sparked intense debate — placing families on a collision course with powerful tech corporations.
At the heart of the debate are parents who say they’ve had enough. Across the country, families are voicing their frustration at what they describe as the unchecked influence of social media on their children’s lives. From exposure to harmful content and cyberbullying to addictive design and privacy violations, the risks are becoming harder to ignore.
“The platforms are simply not doing enough,” said one mother from Sydney whose 13-year-old daughter experienced online harassment. “It feels like we’re fighting this alone — while the companies profit off our kids.”
Australia’s government is now stepping in. Under the proposed legislation, social media companies would be legally required to verify the age of users and block access to those under 16. Tech giants such as Meta and TikTok have expressed concern, citing technical and privacy challenges involved in age verification. Critics warn that the bill may raise ethical and practical questions around surveillance, enforcement, and children’s rights.
Supporters argue that the status quo is far more dangerous. “We are failing an entire generation,” said the country’s eSafety Commissioner. “The time for voluntary guidelines is over. Regulation must reflect the reality children are facing online today.”
As Australia takes this controversial step, the world is watching. The outcome may set a precedent for how governments confront the growing power — and responsibility — of Big Tech in the digital age.