Technology/Australia’s Social Media ban for under-16s faces industry backlash

Australia’s newly approved law banning social media access for users under 16 has sparked controversy, drawing criticism from tech industry giants and public figures, including X owner Elon Musk. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, responding to Musk’s concerns, expressed openness to dialogue, stating, “We’ll talk to anyone.”

The legislation, passed on Thursday, mandates platforms like X, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to implement measures within a year to prevent minors from creating accounts, with penalties of up to AUD 50 million (€30.7 million) for non-compliance.

Critics, however, highlight the law’s lack of clear enforcement guidelines, raising doubts about its feasibility.

Tech companies argue the move could inadvertently push young users toward unregulated platforms with greater risks.

Prime Minister Albanese reassured the public that verification methods would not require identity documents, emphasizing that social media firms already possess vast amounts of user data to ensure compliance.

Musk previously criticized the law as a means to “control internet access” for Australians.

With implementation details still in development, the debate underscores the tension between child safety, privacy, and freedom in the digital age.

The government plans to finalize enforcement mechanisms within 12 months.