Australia bans social media for children under 16

In a historic decision, Australia has put a ban on social media for children under 16 on Wednesday, December 10. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shared a video congratulating the country. 

“giving children a childhood and parents peace of mind”

Australia has introduced a ban on social media for children under 16 on Wednesday, December 10. Social media including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, will not be accessible. All these apps have been ordered to block the accounts of children under 16. Australia is the first country in the world to do so to protect underage children from offensive and age-inappropriate content, which has been a grave concern in every country. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Anthony Albanese (@albomp)

PM Anthony Albanese “Across Australia, those under 16 are starting their day a little differently without social media, its a big change and we’re the first country in the world to give it a crack, but it really matters. We know being a parent today comes with a whole new set of challenges. Algorithms, endless feeds and pressures no generation before has had to deal with. Today’s change is about supporting you to keep your children safe online. Putting the responsibility right where it belongs, on the social media giants, not on parents. Social media for those under 16, we’re giving children a childhood and parents more peace of mind.”

PM Albanese also said that it's a day of pride for the country because it is truly a landmark decision. The ban will positively impact children and their growth. With better mental health and more real-world experience. It will reduce peer pressure and body consciousness in young minds because it leads to eating disorders, depression and anxiety. They will be protected from cyberbullying and online predators who groom young children.