Australia Set to Impose Social Media Age Limit

By Jurassic JennSep 17, 2024 07:42 AMTech
Share:
A child with a phone. Source: https://edition.cnn.com/

Australia plans to introduce a minimum age for children's social media access due to mental and physical health concerns. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that his government would trial age verification technology this year, potentially setting the limit between 14 and 16 years old. If implemented, Australia would be among the first countries to enforce such restrictions.

"We want kids off their devices and engaged in real, physical activities," Albanese told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. He emphasized the need for children to have real-world experiences to combat the social harm caused by excessive social media use.

Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, currently enforces a self-imposed minimum age of 13. The company expressed a desire to empower young users to benefit from its platforms while providing parents with tools to support them "instead of just cutting off access." Alphabet (Google), which owns YouTube, and TikTok have not commented on the proposed measures.

Australia, one of the world's most online countries, sees about 80% of its 26 million citizens using social media. Data from a 2023 University of Sydney study indicates that three-quarters of Australians aged 12 to 17 use YouTube or Instagram.

Albanese's announcement comes amid a parliamentary inquiry into social media's societal effects, which has highlighted the negative mental health impacts on teenagers. However, the inquiry also faced concerns that an age limit might encourage children to hide their online behaviors, driving them to perilous, less regulated digital spaces. Concerns have been raised by digital rights advocates, including Daniel Angus from the Queensland University of Technology Digital Media Research Centre, who warned the measure could create significant harm by limiting healthy online participation.

Australia's eSafety Commissioner cautioned that restriction-based approaches might restrict young people's access to essential support services and push them towards non-mainstream, unregulated platforms. The Commissioner vowed to work with government and community stakeholders to better refine strategies for mitigating online harms across all age groups.

DIGI, representing social media platforms, urged the government to heed the advice of experts such as the eSafety Commissioner, mental health professionals, and representatives from marginalized communities to avoid unintended consequences that may expose children to unsafe online environments.

Earlier, SSP wrote about ten simple computer tips to boost productivity.

Top Articles

Meaning of double rainbow as a spiritual sign from above

Oct 16, 2024 13:27 PM

Symbolism and meaning of the cricket as a spirit animal

Oct 15, 2024 13:01 PM

Meaning of the yellow butterfly. Symbolism and spiritual meaning of the encounter

Oct 15, 2024 15:05 PM

Keep seeing the number of angel 2222? Read its spiritual meaning

Oct 14, 2024 17:01 PM
More News

Totem Animal Kiwi and Its Spiritual Power

Mar 29, 2025 09:33 AM

The Venus Flytrap: A Powerful Symbol of Nature’s Strength and Survival

Mar 29, 2025 09:08 AM

Navigating Work-related Conflicts for Three Zodiac Signs

Mar 29, 2025 08:47 AM

Camel Spirit Animal Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Mar 29, 2025 08:26 AM

Peach Dreams and Their Symbolism

Mar 29, 2025 08:26 AM

The Sacred Power of Red Sage Smudge: Cleansing, Protection, and Spiritual Growth

Mar 29, 2025 08:03 AM

Embracing new perspectives and experiences: horoscope for the middle of spring

Mar 29, 2025 07:43 AM

Three zodiac signs will be focused on self-discovery and introspection: horoscope for March 29

Mar 29, 2025 07:23 AM

Jenna Bush Hager’s Husband Henry Hager Admits She Gives Him the ‘Ick’ During Their Lie Detector Test

Mar 28, 2025 22:00 PM

What Does a Wolf Mean in Your Dream?

Mar 28, 2025 21:59 PM

Chelsea Handler Discusses Drug Use at Oscars Afterparty

Mar 28, 2025 21:21 PM

The Spiritual Power of Cowrie Shells: Symbols of Protection, Prosperity, and Divine Connection

Mar 28, 2025 21:16 PM

Maren Morris Discusses How Her Son Hayes Influenced Her Music

Mar 28, 2025 20:44 PM

Jason Lee's Return to Acting in "The Residence"

Mar 28, 2025 19:53 PM

JoJo Siwa Shaves Sides of Her Head, Debuts Rainbow Mohawk at GLAAD Media Awards

Mar 28, 2025 19:29 PM

What Does a Fox Mean in Your Dream?

Mar 28, 2025 19:29 PM

Ed Sheeran Reveals Titles for Next Five Albums and Inspirations Behind Them

Mar 28, 2025 18:47 PM

Macaulay Culkin Wishes Brenda Song a Happy Birthday

Mar 28, 2025 18:04 PM

The perfect time to plan a peaceful getaway: horoscope for 28-30 of March

Mar 28, 2025 18:03 PM

Three Zodiac Signs Set to Gain Exceptional Guidance

Mar 28, 2025 17:42 PM

Sun Rays Through Clouds Spiritual Meaning

Mar 28, 2025 16:59 PM

Dream Interpretation of Sewing

Mar 28, 2025 16:59 PM

Nicole Kidman Admires Hairless Cats: "One Might Be in My Future"

Mar 28, 2025 16:38 PM

King Charles Photographed After Health Setback Related to Cancer Treatment

Mar 28, 2025 15:59 PM

Kim Kardashian Expresses Pride in Daughter North After Music Video Appearance

Mar 28, 2025 15:12 PM

An opportunity for emotional equilibrium and stability: horoscope for 28-30 of March

Mar 28, 2025 14:52 PM