Australia plans age limits for social media use

Australia is preparing to introduce age restrictions for social media use to protect children’s mental and physical health. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the plan, emphasising that the government would conduct an age verification trial before finalising the laws, likely setting the minimum age between 14 and 16. Albanese stressed the importance of reducing children’s reliance on social media in favour of real-life activities, citing growing concerns about the harmful effects of digital platforms.

The proposed law would make Australia one of the first to implement such a restriction. However, past attempts by the EU have faced resistance over concerns about limiting minors’ online rights. Tech giants like Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, which currently have a self-imposed minimum age of 13, have responded cautiously, calling for empowerment and tools for young users rather than outright restrictions.

Why does this matter?

Australia‘s move comes amid a parliamentary inquiry into social media’s impact on society, where testimonies have highlighted its negative influence on teenagers’ mental health. However, critics warn that the law may backfire, potentially driving younger users into unregulated, hidden areas of the internet. Digital rights advocates and experts from institutions like the Queensland University of Technology have expressed concerns, arguing that exclusion from mainstream platforms could harm children’s digital engagement and safety.

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has also noted that restriction-based approaches may limit access to critical support services for younger users. As the debate continues, social media industry groups urge the government to consult with experts to ensure the policy does not inadvertently expose children to greater risks online.