In a significant move aimed at protecting children from the potential harms of social media, a new proposal could see children under the age of 14 banned from creating accounts on social media platforms in Australia. This sweeping change is designed to address growing concerns about the mental health impacts of social media use among young people. If implemented, social media companies could face substantial fines if they allow children under 14 to sign up or if they fail to get parental consent for users aged 14 and 15.
Push for Stricter Regulations
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, who is a father of four, is strongly advocating for the new measures, urging other Australian states to support the initiative. Comparing the current social media landscape to allowing children access to dangerous substances, he expressed deep concern about the widespread mental health issues affecting young Australians.
“Parents are tearing their hair out over this,” Malinauskas said, highlighting the urgency of the situation. He emphasized that, despite the available technology to regulate social media access for children, tech companies are avoiding responsibility.
Blaming Social Media Giants for Inaction
Malinauskas accused large social media companies, such as Facebook and Instagram, of “buck-passing” when it comes to tackling the addiction-like hold social media has on young people. “These companies are profiting from addiction,” he stated. “They’ve created systems designed to keep young people hooked, and it’s time for them to take accountability.”
The Premier noted that the technology to enforce age restrictions exists, but companies are reluctant to implement it, leaving the responsibility to others.
New Legislation in Development
The proposal, created by former High Court Chief Justice Robert French, is part of a comprehensive 276-page report that tackles the legal and technological aspects of restricting young children’s access to social media. The draft Children (Social Media Safety) Bill will serve as the foundation for public consultation and debate. Malinauskas acknowledged that social media companies are likely to resist the proposed changes but expressed a willingness to collaborate with those open to working together.
A Call to Action
Malinauskas stressed that the time for inaction has passed, stating, “We can no longer sit back while a generation of children suffers from the harmful effects of social media addiction.” He argued that just as casinos and betting platforms must ensure that minors are not allowed to participate, social media companies should also bear the responsibility for keeping children off their platforms.
While companies like Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, have policies in place regarding age restrictions, Malinauskas pointed out that these are often ineffective. “Almost every child has access to social media despite the supposed restrictions,” he said, adding, “The status quo simply isn’t working.”
In response to the public outcry and mounting evidence of the mental health toll on children, this new proposal is being positioned as a necessary step to ensure a healthier, safer environment for young Australians.