Australia proposes strict legislation to fine social media companies up to US$30 million for allowing under-16s on platforms like X, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. The bill, presented to parliament, focuses on safeguarding children’s mental health and privacy.

BulletsIn

• Australia proposes fines of up to US$30 million for non-compliance.
• Targets social media platforms allowing users under 16.
• Platforms like YouTube, WhatsApp, and online gaming exempt.
• Companies given a one-year grace period to enforce the law.
• Robust privacy provisions mandate deletion of age-verification data.
• Minister emphasizes the responsibility of tech firms, not parents.
• Analysts question technical feasibility of strict age enforcement.
• UNICEF warns of potential shift to unregulated online spaces.
• Spain and the US have similar laws for underage social media access.
• Australia’s measures among the world’s strictest for child safety.