The nation's decisive move to restrict social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Officials, campaigners, and parents are observing with great interest to see if this approach will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
The European Movement
Across Europe, a increasing group of states are moving toward similar restrictions.
- Denmark has stated a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the PM arguing that smartphones and networks are "taking away our kids' youth". Legislation is expected to be enacted in the coming year.
- The Norwegian government is set to enforce a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to protect children from the "influence of the algorithms".
- Ireland is working on a digital ID system to authenticate the age and identity of social media users. Authorities have stated that an Australia-style ban remains "a potential measures on the table".
- In The Spanish government, the president has urged lawmakers to approve a proposal lifting the access age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a similar action, alongside an overnight "digital curfew" for adolescents.
- The government in The Netherlands has advised parents to prevent their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has passed a non-binding motion demanding a ban for minors except if a parent decides otherwise is given. Even though it cautions of the "addictive" nature of these services, the move does not establish binding law.
"A clear age restriction is a solid starting point," said the MEP behind the measure.
Britain: A Cautious Eye
For the United Kingdom, the administration has kept open a future ban, arguing that "no option is being dismissed" but maintaining any decision must be "based on strong research".
Previously, interest grew behind a bill to introduce controls on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately watered down. Instead, the government vowed to investigate the matter.
Advocacy groups have voiced concerns. One foundation established by the family of a young person who was lost after encountering disturbing platform posts argues that a simple age ban may not protect children and could create a "cliff edge" of risk when users become eligible.
"The Australian ban is a response to the inability of the Silicon Valley to create tools that are secure and age appropriate for children," stated a leading peer.
The United States: A Fragmented Picture
Stateside, regulation is primarily unfolding at the local level amid federal stalemate.
- Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and controls late-night use.
- Florida has passed a measure prohibiting those below 14 from joining social media, though it faces legal challenges.
- Virginia has passed a law restricting teenagers to 60 minutes of social media access per day, with additional use needing adult consent.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also introduced measures mandating guardian approval for minors to create social media accounts.
Even with widespread concern and proposals from some figures to follow Australia's lead, a US-wide ban is presently seen as a distant prospect.
International Outlook
Beyond the West, further states are similarly taking action.
- Malaysia intends to ban social media for teenagers effective next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has raised the minimum age for one major platform to 16.
But, world bodies take a more nuanced position. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "could backfire". The agency points out that social networks can be a "critical link" for vulnerable young people and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for social media firms to prioritize child safeguards.
Even as this global discussion evolves, the actions of the Australian government and several other countries indicate that policymakers globally are increasingly content to stand by for the industry to act voluntarily.
