The nation's controversial action to restrict social networking access for young people below 16 is sparking debate internationally. Politicians, child protection groups, and guardians are watching closely to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
Across Europe Movement
Throughout Europe, a increasing group of states are considering comparable measures.
- Denmark plans a prohibition on social media for children under fifteen, with the PM declaring that mobile devices and apps are "robbing our youngsters' innocence". Legislation is expected to be enacted next year.
- The Norwegian government is preparing to implement a minimum age limit of 15, highlighting the need to safeguard children from the "power of the algorithms".
- Ireland is developing a digital wallet to verify the age and identity of social media account holders. Authorities have suggested that an Australia-style ban could be "an measures in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has called on parliament to enact a bill raising the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the leader has floated the idea of a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has recommended a similar move, potentially involving an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The government in the Netherlands has recommended guardians to restrict their youngsters from social media until 15.
For the broader EU, the European parliament has passed a advisory resolution supporting a ban for under-16s unless guardian approval is given. Even though it highlights of the "compulsive" design of these apps, the move does not establish enforceable legislation.
"An effective age barrier is a solid first step," stated one MEP behind the resolution.
The UK: A Cautious Approach
In the UK, the government has remained open to a future ban, stating that "no option is discarded" but insisting any policy must be "based on robust research".
Last year, interest built behind a legislative effort to impose controls on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually modified. However, the administration vowed to further research the issue.
Charities have expressed concerns. One foundation founded by the loved ones of a teenager who died after encountering harmful online content contends that a blanket age ban may not improve online safety and could result in a "dangerous transition" of harm when teens turn 16.
"The Australian ban is a reaction to the failure of the Silicon Valley to build platforms and apps that are appropriate and fit for minors," said a influential peer.
The US: A Fragmented Approach
In the United States, action is largely unfolding at the regional government level due to national inaction.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for under-18s to use social media and limits nighttime use.
- Florida has enacted a bill banning under-14s from joining social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
- The state of Virginia has passed a rule restricting under-16s to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with any further use dependent on adult consent.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted laws requiring parental consent for under-16s to set up social media presences.
Despite widespread concern and proposals from some politicians to copy this lead, a US-wide ban is right now seen as unlikely.
Global Outlook
Beyond Europe and the US, other nations are likewise taking action.
- The Malaysian government aims to restrict social media for teenagers starting from next year.
- Brazil has increased the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.
But, global bodies strike a more nuanced stance. A major UN agency has cautioned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "could backfire". The agency points out that the internet can be a "lifeline" for vulnerable children and that government action should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to prioritize safety.
While this international discussion evolves, the steps of Australia and its followers indicate that governments internationally are increasingly content to stand by for the industry to act voluntarily.
