The nation's controversial policy to ban social platforms access for those under 16 is sending ripples around the globe. Officials, campaigners, and guardians are observing closely to see if this approach will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
European Momentum
Throughout Europe, a increasing group of nations are exploring similar restrictions.
- Denmark has stated a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister arguing that mobile devices and apps are "taking away our kids' innocence". A law is expected to be enacted in the coming year.
- Norway is preparing to implement a age restriction of 15, highlighting the need to shield young people from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- Ireland is developing a online verification tool to confirm the identity and age of social media participants. Officials have stated that an Australia-style ban remains "a potential options on the table".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has urged the legislature to enact a law raising the access age for joining social media to 16.
- In The French government, the president has floated the idea of a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a related step, potentially involving an overnight "screen time restriction" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has urged guardians to prevent their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
For the broader EU, the EU parliament has passed a advisory motion supporting a ban for minors without a parent decides otherwise is given. While it warns of the "habit-forming" quality of these services, the move does not create mandatory rules.
"A strong age restriction is a solid foundation," stated a leading parliamentarian driving the measure.
Britain: An Evidence-Based Approach
Across Britain, the leadership has remained open to a possible ban, arguing that "no option is discarded" but stressing any decision must be "based on strong data".
Previously, momentum grew behind a bill to enact limits on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately watered down. Nonetheless, the government committed to further research the matter.
Campaign organizations have voiced warnings. One foundation established by the family of a young person who was lost after encountering dangerous social media material suggests that a strict age ban may not make platforms safer and could create a "cliff edge" of harm when teens turn 16.
"The Australian ban is a answer to the failure of the Silicon Valley to create tools that are secure and fit for minors," commented a influential peer.
The US: A Decentralized Landscape
Stateside, legislation is primarily happening at the regional level amid federal stalemate.
- The state of Utah demands parental consent for under-18s to use social media and limits nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has passed a measure banning those below 14 from creating accounts on social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has approved a law restricting minors to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with any further access needing adult consent.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also introduced measures demanding parental consent for teenagers to open social media accounts.
Despite bipartisan support and proposals from various individuals to follow the Australian lead, a nationwide ban is currently seen as a distant prospect.
International Perspectives
Beyond Europe and the US, other countries are likewise considering moves.
- Malaysia aims to restrict social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- Brazil has increased the access age for Instagram to 16.
Yet, global agencies adopt a more measured tone. A major UN agency has warned that social media bans carry risks and "might backfire". The body highlights that the internet can be a "critical link" for isolated young people and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to invest in child safeguards.
As this global debate unfolds, the actions of Australia and its followers indicate that policymakers internationally are no longer willing to wait for the industry to make changes on their own.
