In a bold move, the Australian government has announced plans to ban children under 16 from using social media. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described the proposal as “world-leading,” aimed at tackling the harmful effects of online platforms on young people. If passed, the legislation could come into effect by late next year and would include an unprecedented age-verification system using biometrics or government identification—a first of its kind globally.
But the big question is: should the UK consider adopting a similar approach to social media?
Australia’s Plan to Protect Young Minds with a Social Media Ban.
The Australian government’s proposal highlights growing concerns about the negative impact of social media on children’s mental and physical health. Albanese pointed to risks such as harmful body image pressures that disproportionately affect girls and misogynistic content aimed at boys.
“Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it,” Albanese said during the announcement. He stressed that adolescence is already a challenging period, made worse by damaging online content. The proposal sets Australia apart, introducing the strictest age limits globally with no exceptions for parental consent or existing accounts.
How Would It Work?
The legislation would hold social media platforms accountable for ensuring compliance, with enforcement led by Australia’s eSafety Commissioner. Users themselves wouldn’t face penalties, but platforms would need to prove they are taking effective steps to block underage access. If approved, the law would take effect 12 months after passing and undergo review post-implementation.
Supporters and Critics
The policy has drawn both praise and criticism. Advocates say it is a necessary step to protect children from harmful content, online bullying, and the developmental risks of excessive screen time. A petition by the 36Months initiative, supported by over 125,000 signatures, argues that social media is “rewiring young brains” and driving a mental health crisis among adolescents.
However, critics have raised concerns about the practicality and ethics of such a ban. Many experts argue that outright bans delay exposure but fail to teach children how to navigate online spaces responsibly. Child advocacy groups have called the measure “too blunt an instrument,” urging the government to focus on imposing safety standards for platforms instead.
The United Nations has also weighed in on similar policies globally, advocating for balanced measures that ensure children can benefit safely from digital engagement. Enforcement challenges remain a concern, as tools like fake accounts could easily circumvent restrictions.
A Tough Law with Global Implications
Australia’s approach is setting a new benchmark for regulating children’s access to social media. With one of the highest age limits globally and strict enforcement measures, the legislation is a clear departure from more lenient approaches seen elsewhere, such as in the European Union.
If successful, Australia’s law could inspire similar measures in other countries—but is this the right approach for the UK?
Should the UK Consider a Ban?
The UK faces many of the same challenges with young people’s social media use: exposure to harmful content, risks to mental health, and issues of screen addiction. But could a ban actually work here? Or would it raise more problems, such as enforcement difficulties and questions of privacy?
While Australia’s plan prioritises child safety, critics argue that education and regulation may be more effective than prohibition. Is the UK ready to take such a drastic step—or should we focus on teaching children how to navigate the digital world responsibly?
We’d love to hear your thoughts: Should the UK adopt a similar ban on social media for under-16s? Or are there better ways to protect young people online? Let us know in the comments below!
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