Australia has taken a bold step to protect young minds with new legislation that bans children under 16 from accessing social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
This move, supported by both the Australian government and the Coalition, aims to combat the mental health challenges, bullying, and exposure to harmful content that often accompanies early use of these platforms.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the significance of the new law during a recent interview on “Insiders”.
“I’ve met parents who’ve had to bury their children as a result of the impact that social media has had, as a result of bullying, and we need to do something about it,” he said, emphasising the urgency of the matter.
He also called the legislation “world-leading”, adding, “I assure you, the whole world is watching.”
Notably, the rules offer no exemptions for kids who already have accounts or for those whose parents approve their social media use. The regulations are designed to completely eliminate access for anyone under the age of 16.
South African media personality Tbo Touch took to Instagram to voice his support for the Australian government’s decision.
Touch highlighted the dangers of social media for young people, calling it a source of discontent and a gateway to harmful content.
“The rest of the world should follow suit. My heart goes out to the children of this generation. They’ve been robbed of their innocence with some explicit sexual & violent content online, hence most young people are discontent with themselves,” he wrote.
Touch also stressed the challenges faced by parents in managing their children’s online activity, noting the negative impact on young people’s mental health.
“It’s never enough because someone out there can display themselves better. It’s a difficult assignment for parents too. We can learn from the Australian government and combat this escalating rate of teenage suicides and cyberbullying. Viva Aus,” he added.
Tbo Touch’s call for other nations to adopt similar measures reflects the growing concern around social media’s influence on younger generations.
Many argue that restricting early access to these platforms could significantly reduce exposure to cyberbullying, explicit content and the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards.
As Australia’s new legislation garners global attention, it raises important questions about how governments worldwide can protect the mental health and well-being of their youth in an increasingly digital age.