The nation's decisive move to prohibit social media access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, campaigners, and families are observing with great interest to see if this approach will inspire imitation for other nations.
European Movement
Across Europe, a rising chorus of nations are considering comparable measures.
- The Danish government has stated a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the leader arguing that smartphones and apps are "stealing our kids' innocence". A law could be passed in the coming year.
- Norway is set to implement a minimum age limit of 15, citing the need to shield young people from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- Ireland is introducing a digital wallet to verify the user details of social media account holders. Authorities have stated that an Australia-style ban remains "a potential tools in reserve".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has called on parliament to approve a law lifting the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the leader has proposed a ban for those under fifteen, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a related action, including an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
- The administration in the Netherlands has advised parents to restrict their kids from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has passed a advisory resolution demanding a ban for under-16s except if parental consent is granted. While it highlights of the "habit-forming" design of these platforms, the move does not enact binding law.
"A strong age limit is a good starting point," stated a leading MEP supporting the measure.
The United Kingdom: A Watchful Stance
For the United Kingdom, the administration has kept open a potential ban, arguing that "no measure is off the table" but insisting any policy must be "based on strong research".
Last year, momentum built behind a bill to impose controls on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately weakened. Instead, the government committed to conduct more studies the issue.
Campaign organizations have raised concerns. One foundation founded by the relatives of a young person who took her own life after viewing disturbing platform posts suggests that a strict age ban could fail to protect children and could result in a "dangerous transition" of exposure when teens turn 16.
"Australia's ban is a reaction to the inability of the tech sector to design products and services that are appropriate and suitable for children," stated a leading online safety campaigner.
The United States: A Fragmented Picture
In the United States, regulation is mostly occurring at the regional government level amid federal gridlock.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and controls nighttime use.
- Florida has passed a law prohibiting those below 14 from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- The state of Virginia has enacted a regulation restricting teenagers to 60 minutes of social media use per day, with additional time needing parental permission.
- The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have also passed bills demanding parental consent for under-16s to open social media profiles.
Despite bipartisan support and suggestions from various politicians to mimic this path, a US-wide ban is right now seen as improbable.
Global Perspectives
Beyond Europe and the US, additional nations are likewise considering moves.
- Malaysia intends to ban social media for under-16s starting from next year.
- Brazil has increased the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.
However, international organizations take a more measured stance. Unicef has advised that age-based restrictions carry risks and "might prove counterproductive". The agency highlights that online platforms can be a "critical link" for marginalized young people and that bans should not be a "excuse" for social media firms to prioritize safety.
Even as this global conversation continues, the actions of the Australian government and several other countries indicate that governments internationally are increasingly prepared to delay for tech companies to make changes on their own.
