Big Tech says Australia "rushed" social media ban for youths under 16

Australia has passed a landmark law banning children under 16 from accessing social media platforms, with tech companies like Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat expressing strong opposition.

The law imposes fines of up to A$49.5 million (USD 32 million) on platforms that fail to block underage users. Passed quickly through parliament, the bill was introduced after testimonies from parents linked social media to cyberbullying and youth self-harm.

Critics, including tech firms and industry groups, argue the law was rushed, lacks clarity, and risks unintended consequences, such as driving young users to unregulated parts of the internet.

A trial phase to determine enforcement methods begins in January, with the ban set for full implementation by November 2025.

This legislation follows Australia’s history of tough tech regulations, including laws requiring platforms to pay for media content and combat online scams.