The nation's controversial move to restrict social platforms access for young people below 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, campaigners, and families are observing with great interest to see if this strategy will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Movement
Across Europe, a growing number of countries are exploring parallel restrictions.
- Denmark has announced a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the leader stating that phones and networks are "stealing our kids' innocence". Legislation could be formalized next year.
- Norway is set to enforce a access barrier of 15, citing the need to safeguard young people from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is introducing a online verification tool to verify the user details of social media account holders. The media minister have stated that an Australia-style ban is "a potential tools on the table".
- In Spain, the prime minister has called on parliament to enact a bill increasing the access age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the leader has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has endorsed a similar step, including an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The administration in The Netherlands has recommended parents to prevent their children from social media before 15.
At the EU level, the bloc's legislature has passed a non-binding statement calling for a ban for under-16s unless parental consent is given. Although it warns of the "compulsive" nature of these services, the resolution does not establish binding law.
"A strong age restriction is a solid starting point," stated a leading European lawmaker behind the resolution.
Britain: A Watchful Eye
In the UK, the administration has remained open to a possible ban, arguing that "no option is being dismissed" but maintaining any action must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".
Last year, momentum built behind a bill to enact limits on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately watered down. Nonetheless, the administration pledged to further research the topic.
Campaign organizations have voiced warnings. One foundation founded by the loved ones of a young person who was lost after being exposed to disturbing platform posts argues that a strict age ban could fail to make platforms safer and could create a "dangerous transition" of risk when users become eligible.
"The Australian ban is a answer to the inability of the social media companies to build tools that are appropriate and age appropriate for minors," commented a leading child protection advocate.
America: A Fragmented Approach
Across America, regulation is mostly happening at the regional level against a backdrop of country-wide gridlock.
- The state of Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has passed a bill banning under-14s from creating accounts on social media, though it faces constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has approved a rule capping under-16s to one hour of social media use per day, with any further use needing a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also enacted bills demanding guardian approval for minors to open social media profiles.
Despite bipartisan support and calls from some individuals to follow this example, a nationwide ban is currently seen as unlikely.
International Outlook
Apart from these regions, other states are likewise exploring options.
- The Malaysian government aims to prohibit social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has raised the access age for Instagram to 16.
Yet, world agencies strike a more cautious tone. A major UN agency has warned that age-based restrictions pose dangers and "might have unintended consequences". The agency points out that online platforms can be a "lifeline" for isolated young people and that bans should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to improve safety.
As this international conversation continues, the steps of Australia and several other countries demonstrate that states internationally are no longer content to wait for tech companies to act voluntarily.
