Australia is set to become the first country to ban children under 16 from accessing social media.

A bill is on track to pass the Senate today with bipartisan support, though it has faced criticism for the rapid pace of its development and its apparent hamfistedness.

The ban on accessing Snapchat, Reddit, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other services for under-16s will take effect a year after the laws are enacted, following trials of age-verification technology. 

However, concerns have been raised with the curtailment of outlets for free speech and expression by young people, and about the adequacy of parliamentary scrutiny, with critics noting debate was allowed in only a single three-hour inquiry session after just a few days for public submissions. 

The limited engagement with young people during the legislative process has also attracted attention.

Despite broad support, opposition exists within the Coalition, with Tasmanian Liberal MP Bridget Archer crossing the floor in the House of Representatives to vote against the bill. Senator Matt Canavan has also expressed dissent, citing the need for more thorough examination of the legislation.

Prime Minister Anothony Albanese has championed the legislation as a measure to support parents and ensure children have healthier, more active lifestyles. 

“This is about making sure children have a childhood and parents have peace of mind,” the Prime Minister said, highlighting the growing risks associated with social media, including online bullying, anxiety, and predation.

Critics argue that the law's rushed implementation could lead to unintended consequences. 

“Given this legislation would be a world first, it is more important than ever that the detail is thought out properly,” Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said. 

The legislation stipulates that age-verification data collected by platforms must be destroyed after use and cannot be employed for other purposes. Companies failing to comply could face fines of up to $50 million. 

Recommendations from a recent inquiry include barring platforms from using government IDs, such as passports, for verification, suggesting alternative methods like biometric technology.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has assured MPs that sensitive information would not need to be submitted to tech giants. The effectiveness of current technologies is being evaluated in trials set to conclude in mid-2025.

While some argue the ban is necessary to address social harm, others suggest alternatives to an outright prohibition. 

Enhanced age-verification systems, parental consent mechanisms, and digital literacy education have been proposed as solutions. 

Critics highlight the importance of involving young people in crafting policies that directly impact them, a recommendation echoed in the inquiry’s findings.

Despite dissent, the bill is likely to pass, with the coming year determining how effectively the legislation can be implemented.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. CareerSpot News