The ban, among the toughest in the world, has broad public support but has been criticized by experts who say it could have unintended negative consequences.

Summary

Australia has passed a groundbreaking ban on social media use for children under 16, the strictest of its kind globally.

Platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Reddit have one year to implement the age limit, with fines up to AU$50M for non-compliance.

Supporters cite mental health concerns, while critics argue the ban risks isolation for marginalized youth, lacks proper research, and excludes harmful platforms like 4chan.

Privacy concerns surround proposed age-verification methods. Opponents, including parents, scholars, and tech companies, argue the legislation is rushed and poorly designed, potentially exacerbating existing issues.

  • Voroxpete@sh.itjust.works
    21·
    8 hours ago

    So now instead of getting their news from Facebook, they’re getting it from Truth Social? Or some new fly by night social media platform even less reputable?

    Surely that’s a lot worse?

    • yeahiknow3@lemmings.world
      11·
      8 hours ago

      First of all, fifteen year olds don’t give a shit about political “news.” Secondly, is your argument that Facebook shouldn’t be banned because something else just as bad as Facebook exists (which could also be banned)?