Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has thrown his support behind a proposal to ban children from social media, hailing South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas’ leadership on the issue.
The move comes as parents increasingly voice concerns about their kids’ access to inappropriate content online and the mental health impacts of social media. Albanese acknowledged the urgency of the issue, stating that parents are “worried sick” about what their children are exposed to online, and it’s a “major social issue” in the country.
The proposal, currently under examination by a former High Court chief justice, would prohibit children under 14 from accessing social media, while those aged 14 and 15 would require parental consent.
Prime Minister Welcomes SA’s Move to Protect Kids from Social Media Harms
The federal government has also committed $6.5 million to pilot “age assurance technologies” aimed at preventing children from accessing harmful online content.
Additionally, $43.2 million will be allocated to respond to “emerging and evolving online harms,” and $1.4 million will be earmarked for the office of the online safety watchdog over two years.
While welcoming the initiative, Albanese emphasized the need for effective measures, citing concerns that age protocols may be circumvented.
The prime minister also highlighted the significance of addressing the impact of social media, which he believes is the top concern among parents at school sports and social events across the country.
The federal government’s commitment to tackling online harms is further underscored by the establishment of a joint standing committee to examine the consequences of online content on Australian society.
