Australian ban on social media for under-16s gains public support, passed by federal parliament

From Investing.com: 2024-11-29 01:56:23

Meta whistleblower Frances Haugen exposed the tech giant’s knowledge of social media’s impact on teen mental health, sparking global concern. Despite resistance, Australia’s federal parliament passed a nationwide ban on social media for under-16s. The move, triggered by the wife of a state leader, gained 77% public support and will take effect in a year.

Australia’s ban follows similar restrictions in France and some U.S. states, aiming to protect young minds from the harmful effects of social media. The law, which garnered bipartisan support, faced opposition from social media companies and some lawmakers. Despite concerns, the ban passed and will be enforced starting in a year.

The swift transformation from state-level action to a national ban in Australia underscores the urgency of addressing social media’s impact on youth. With strong public backing and bipartisan support, the law aims to protect children from the negative effects of excessive social media use. It is set to take effect in a year.

The global concern over social media’s impact on youth mental health has led to legislative action in Australia, with bipartisan support for a ban on social media for under-16s. The move, driven by public demand and expert recommendations, aims to protect young minds from the harmful effects of excessive social media use.



Read more at Investing.com: Australian social media ban started with call to act by poilitican’s wife By Reuters