The Australian government is working on a revolutionary bill that aims to prevent children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that this proposed law “will set an example for the world”. So, what does this law really mean and what effects might it have on children’s social media use? Let’s examine it together.
One of the Strictest Controls in the World
Australia is planning to introduce innovative methods such as an age verification system for children’s access to social media platforms. This system involves using methods such as biometric data or government authentication to verify users’ ages. Albanese highlighted the harmful effects of young girls’ exposure to negative content related to body image, and misogynistic content for boys. This situation poses serious risks for children’s mental and physical health.
Current Situation and Other Countries
Different countries around the world are trying to develop various laws to limit children’s use of social media. However, Australia’s proposed policy stands out as one of the strictest. No country has ever tried to use such strict methods to enforce social media age limits. It is quite striking that the bill does not provide exemptions for parental leave and existing accounts.
Process of the Draft Law
Albanese stated that the laws will be submitted to the Australian parliament this year and will come into force within 12 months after their approval. The opposition Liberal Party also supported this ban and emphasized that children should be protected from social media. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland announced that Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X platforms, as well as YouTube, will likely be covered by this legislation.
Expert Opinions and Discussions
Although experts agree on the negative effects of social media platforms on young people’s mental health, there are differing opinions on how effective a complete ban on these platforms would be. Some experts argue that the bans prevent young people from being taught how to navigate safely online. Instead, it is thought that alternative approaches such as creating age-appropriate spaces and increasing digital literacy may yield better results.
Alternative Approaches
Rather than bans, it is emphasized that children should be educated on the use of social media. Here are some alternative approaches that can be suggested in this regard:
- Digital Literacy Training: Providing children with training on safe internet use can enable them to act more consciously and safely on social media.
- Age Appropriate Content Areas: Social media platforms can be encouraged to create special and safer areas for children.
- Family Monitoring Tools: Software and applications can be developed so that parents can monitor their children’s online activities.
- Awareness Campaigns: Campaigns can be organized to ensure that children and parents are more informed about social media use.
As a result, Australia’s new law proposal could be an important step towards children’s use of social media. However, in addition to bans, education and awareness-raising activities are also of great importance. Thus, children can both have a safe online experience and grow up as more conscious individuals in the digital world.
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