New Law
Australia’s House of Representatives recently passed the “Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill, 2024”
The amendment is part of Australia’s Online Safety Act of 2021, specifically adding a new part regarding social media minimum age to reduce harm to children under 16 using social media.
It focuses on platforms that enable online social interaction and allow users to post content, including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, X, and similar services.
The goal is to restrict Australian children who are under 16 from having accounts on these platforms, which are classified as age-restricted social media platforms (ARSMP).
How will the ban be implemented?
Providers of social media platforms must take "reasonable steps" to stop under-16 users from registering, or face fines of up to $49.5 million.
Specific guidelines for "reasonable steps" will be developed by the eSafety Commissioner.
The law will be enforced 12 months after approval, and all account holders will need to verify their age.
What are privacy concerns?
Age verification technologies raise concerns about collecting, storing, and sharing personal data.
Entities must comply with privacy obligations under the Privacy Act, 1988, and destroy collected data after use.
The government plans to introduce a "Digital Duty of Care" for digital platforms to protect users.
Is social media harmful to children?
Research shows social media can negatively impact children's mental health, although a blanket ban is debated.
Some argue the law is overly simplistic and doesn't effectively address the risks.
Critics, including the Australian Greens, say the legislation is rushed and lacks evidence
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