One independent MP calls bill – which passed on Thursday – a ‘1970 solution for a 2024 problem’
Social media company Meta has accused the Australian government of rushing to introduce an under-16 social media ban without properly considering the evidence and voices of young people.
But Australian politicians who supported the world-first legislation argue it is necessary to ensure another generation of teenagers do not experience “as much damaging content” in years to come.
The ban, which was approved by the Australian parliament on Thursday just days after a one-day inquiry was held to consider 15,000 submissions, has already been described as a test case for other governments plotting action.
Despite the bill’s passage, it was not unanimously endorsed by politicians, with one independent MP calling it “a 1970 solution for a 2024 problem”. Human rights groups and mental health advocates have also warned it may marginalise young Australians.
So far, most social media companies have said they will comply with the ban – failure to do so would result in fines of up to $50m. But they have expressed uncertainty about how it would be enforced and concern about its potential impact.
“We are concerned about the process which rushed the legislation through while failing to properly consider the evidence, what industry already does to ensure age-appropriate experiences, and the voices of young people,” a Meta spokesperson said.
“The task now turns to ensuring there is productive consultation on all rules associated with the bill to ensure a technically feasible outcome that does not place an onerous burden on parents and teens and a commitment that rules will be consistently applied across all social apps used by teens.
