Australian teenagers could be deprived of social media in the coming weeks. A bill will be examined by the Parliament of this Oceanian country by the end of November 2024, the online media L’usine digitale tells us. If passed, teenagers in Australia will no longer be able to use TikTok, Instagram or YouTube.
On Thursday, November 7, 2024, Australian Prime Minister Anthony ALBANESE confirmed his intention to introduce a bill to ban social platforms for under-16s. “Social networks do a lot of harm to children and I have decided to put an end to it,” he justified.
Our source specifies that the text should be examined by Parliament before the end of November. Its adoption seems likely, to the extent that the main opposition party has already spoken out in favor of such a ban, even if adjustments remain possible, particularly on the minimum age. Once passed, the law will come into force one year later.
The online media goes on to say that the bill is particularly strict. It does not provide for any exceptions. Accounts already opened must be closed. And no parental consent will be introduced for those under 16, unlike other regulations put in place in other countries, such as France.
The digital factory also informs that the government does not wish to introduce sanctions against adolescents who circumvent the ban and against their parents. “The onus will be on social media platforms to demonstrate that they are taking reasonable steps to prevent access,” says Anthony ALBANESE.
Dave MOON
