The Australian government is taking steps to protect children’s mental health and shield them from inappropriate content online by working with states and territories to legislate new age limits for social media websites. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese plans to introduce these new laws before an upcoming election, stating that parents are struggling to address the mental health consequences of social media without guidance. Albanese highlighted the negative impact of social media on children, emphasizing the need to prioritize real connections and experiences over digital interactions.
While no specific age limit has been set yet for social media, the government is experimenting with age assurance technology to restrict children’s access to inappropriate content online, such as pornography. The implementation of the ban is still under consultation, with the government considering an upper age limit of 14 to 16 years. Albanese acknowledged that this issue is a global concern, with governments worldwide grappling with how to regulate social media to protect young users.
A survey conducted in June by Essential Media revealed that 68% of Australians support the idea of an age limit on social media, while only 15% are opposed. This indicates a significant level of public concern regarding the impact of social media on children and the need for regulatory measures to safeguard their well-being. The government’s efforts to address harmful content online align with its broader commitment to protecting citizens from the negative consequences of digital platforms.
Since assuming power in May 2022, the center-left Labor government has taken proactive steps to address issues related to harmful content online. In the first half of 2024, the government took social media platform X to court in an effort to compel the removal of footage depicting a violent terrorist attack in Sydney. This legal action underscores the government’s commitment to holding social media companies accountable for facilitating the dissemination of harmful content and ensuring the safety of users, particularly children.
By legislating new age limits for social media websites and exploring technological solutions to restrict access to inappropriate content, the Australian government is prioritizing the mental health and well-being of children in the digital age. The proposed measures reflect a broader societal shift towards greater regulation and oversight of social media platforms to mitigate the negative impact of online interactions on vulnerable populations. As governments worldwide grapple with similar challenges, Australia’s proactive approach sets a precedent for addressing the complex issues surrounding social media and its impact on youth.
