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Australia stands firm on under-16 social media ban despite tech industry resistance
Australia's Communications Minister Anika Wells has dismissed concerns from major technology firms over the country's upcoming ban on social media access for children under 16, calling the policy a "moral imperative" and vowing to resist pressure from Washington or Silicon Valley.
The new rules, set to take effect on December 10, will require ten platforms-including Meta, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube-to implement "reasonable steps" to block users under 16. Wells, speaking to the BBC in Brisbane, framed the move as a defense of parents' interests over corporate pushback, stating, "We stand firm on the side of parents and not on the platforms."
Global scrutiny and U.S. political tensions
While tech companies like Meta acknowledge the need for stronger youth protections, they argue outright bans are ineffective. The policy has also drawn attention from U.S. lawmakers, with former President Donald Trump previously vowing to challenge any nation targeting American tech firms. Australia's e-Safety Commissioner, tasked with enforcing the ban, has been summoned to testify before U.S. Congress.
Wells welcomed international scrutiny but insisted Australia's focus remains on domestic obligations. "We are very much concerned with doing our duty to Australians," she said, adding that the legislation could inspire similar actions globally. "If you don't have a safe operating model and people are losing their lives as a result, I think you can expect public policymakers to act."
Criticism and legal challenges
The ban, though popular, faces criticism from experts advocating for alternatives like stricter parental controls, digital literacy programs, or targeted restrictions. Legal hurdles have also emerged: two Australian teenagers filed a High Court challenge last week, arguing the law violates children's rights. Enforcement concerns persist, as U.S. states attempting similar measures have seen court reversals.
Another glaring omission, critics note, is online gaming-platforms like Roblox, which researchers and parents flag as equally harmful. Wells acknowledged the gap but cited recent safety improvements by Roblox, noting the e-Safety Commissioner's ongoing oversight.
'A treatment plan, not a cure'
The government has framed the ban as an evolving strategy, with a two-year review period to assess effectiveness. Wells compared it to underage drinking laws: "Just because some teens drink doesn't mean we shouldn't have the law." She admitted rollout may be "messy" but insisted the long-term benefits justify the effort.
"You can't out-parent an algorithm, and this is giving parents another weapon in their arsenal."
Anika Wells, Australia's Communications Minister
Wells, a mother of three, called the policy a personal contribution to easing parental struggles with screen time-a challenge she faces in her own household, often delegated to her husband due to her travel demands. She reported widespread gratitude from parents, framing the ban as a tool to "help those kinds of fights."
What's next
The ban takes effect on December 10, with enforcement led by Australia's e-Safety Commissioner. A comprehensive review will follow within two years, potentially adjusting measures based on outcomes and emerging harms.
