Australia has taken significant steps to safeguard its youth online, removing over 4.7 million social media accounts belonging to users under the age of 16 since the implementation of a new ban last month. The law, which went into effect on December 11, 2023, mandates that major social media platforms eliminate accounts held by minors and prevent the creation of new accounts.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the government’s commitment to children’s safety in a statement, saying, “Our government has acted to help keep kids safe online. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but these early signs show it’s important we’ve acted to make this change.” The law aims to mitigate the risks associated with online platforms, including internet addiction and exposure to harmful content.
Implementation of the Ban
The legislation, dubbed “world-leading” by Albanese, directs social media companies to enforce the ban strictly. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube were among those required to comply. Some companies, including Meta, began removing accounts as early as December 4 in anticipation of the new regulations.
According to the government, approximately 2.5 million Australians between the ages of 8 and 15 are currently active online. The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, reported that the preliminary figures released represent a first batch of data regarding compliance with the new regulations. She assured the public that all ten designated platforms were adhering to the law and that no additional services would be added at this time.
Government Response and Public Concerns
Minister for Communications Anika Wells spoke at a press conference in Murarrie, Queensland, highlighting the law’s success in allowing children to engage in offline activities: “Now Australian parents can be confident that their kids can have their childhood back.” Wells emphasized the importance of real-world connections and experiences away from screens.
Despite the government’s optimism, some social media companies have expressed concerns. Meta cautioned that restricting access for youths could isolate vulnerable teens from their online communities. In response, Grant clarified that the goal of the law is not to eliminate all youth access to technology but to protect them from predatory practices by social media companies. She stated, “What we’re actually doing is we’re preventing predatory social media companies from accessing our children.”
Research from the University of Queensland has shown that social media use among teenagers can lead to increased exposure to various harms, including social isolation and mental health issues. A 2024 study by Orygen, a leading organization in youth mental health research, indicated that nearly all Australian youth reported daily social media usage, with 40% spending more than three hours online each day.
The recent data on account removals underscores the government’s proactive approach to children’s safety in the digital landscape. The Albanese administration is committed to ongoing efforts to enhance digital literacy and create safer online environments for young Australians.
