Australia's Youth Face New Digital Challenges: Social Media Age Ban Sparks Debate

Australia's Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024 aims to prevent children under 16 from having accounts on designated social media platforms. While it promises to curb online harm and bullying, concerns remain over user exclusion and its true effectiveness in tackling core digital issues and preserving youth rights.

Amid growing concerns about online safety, Australia has introduced the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, aiming to restrict under-16s from having accounts on certain social media platforms. The law has sparked public debate, highlighting its potential to curb online harm while raising questions about feasibility and privacy risks.

While supporters tout the act as a way to reduce bullying and exposure to harmful online content, critics argue that banning accounts doesn't necessarily address the root causes of these issues. The law imposes the compliance burden on platforms but does not criminalize parents or teens for their online activities.

As the policy's implementation approaches, concerns grow about its impact on young people's rights and their role in digital public life. The act is seen as a significant, albeit controversial, step in balancing online safety with preserving digital freedoms. The need for supportive measures to guide families and schools remains crucial.

(With inputs from agencies.)