The world’s first law prohibiting children under 16 from using social media was passed by the Australian government, and tech companies are being warned to strengthen security before an unspecified deadline.
After months of strong public debate and a hurried parliamentary process that saw the bill proposed, discussed, and enacted within a week, the Senate finally approved the social media ban late on Thursday, the last sitting day of the year.
Under the new rule, tech corporations risk fines of around 50 million Australian dollars ($32 million) unless they take “reasonable steps” to keep minors from using social media sites.
It’s the world’s toughest response yet to a problem that has seen other countries impose restrictions. It does not hold companies accountable for breaches of a nationwide ban. The ban is expected to apply to Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Reddit, and X, but that list could expand.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese applauded the new law on Friday. Also stated saying it sent a message to parents that
“we’ve got your back.”
“Platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them,”
Albanese had previously told parliament there was no time to waste.
He also said
“We know that social media can be a weapon for bullies, a platform for peer pressure, a driver of anxiety, a vehicle for scammers. And worst of all, a tool for online predators,”.
The bill was backed by most members of Australia’s opposition party, the Liberal Party, with Liberal Sen.
Maria Kovacic defined it as a “pivotal moment in our country.”
She also added Thursday before the vote
“We have drawn a line in the sand. The enormous power of big tech can no longer remain unchecked in Australia,”.
However, it met fierce opposition from multiple independents and smaller parties. That included the Greens Sen. Sarah Hanson-Young, who accused the major parties of attempting to “fool” Australian parents. Do you think this actually going to help the children of Australia? Comment back to us and share your opinion. For news & daily updates you can also follow allbusinessinsider.
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