‘Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it’: Albanese announces ban for under 16s
Anthony Albanese has announced “world leading” new laws to ban Australians under 16 from signing up to or using social media platforms.
The proposed law will be presented to a virtual sitting of the national cabinet on Friday morning, and will come into effect in a year’s time. Underage users who already have accounts will also be locked out in a year’s time.
“Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it,” Albanese said.
“I’ve spoken to thousands of parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles. They, like me, are worried sick about the safety of our kids online. And I want Australian parents and families to know that government has your back.
“I want parents to be able to say: ‘Sorry, mate, it’s against the law’.”
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said which platforms are defined as ‘social media’ will be spelled out before the end of the year, and that legislation — including hefty fines for those platforms that don’t play ball — is necessary because self governance hasn’t worked.
“The fact is that social media has a social responsibility, but the platforms are falling short,” she said.
“These platforms know their users better than anyone, understand their habits, their capabilities, what content should be driven to them and what their behaviours are. In this year that we will take in terms of implementation, that will be the key focus.”
Albanese said the legislation isn’t waterproof, but it’s an important step.
“We don’t pretend that you can get a 100% outcome here,” he said, comparing it to drinking laws.
“I bet this weekend I wouldn’t be surprised if somewhere in Australia, someone who is under 18 – it is possible that they might get access to some alcohol.”
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Nathan Jolly is the Features Editor at Mumbrella. He joined the team in July, 2023.
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Don’t worry social media, kids learned how to game our age gates as well.
It will all be good!
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So, the ministry of truth is being built. Digital ID will be rolled out. You will like what we say and be happy.
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because the vape ban was such a success
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Whatever happened to watching the Wiggles or Thomas the Tank Engine! That insert photo says it all.. don’t start giving phones to kids just to keep them quiet….
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Any government policy or intervention is no substitute for effective parenting
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