ⓒ The Australian News
Australia’s new social media laws, banning children under 16 from platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, have sparked strong reactions from tech companies. These world-first regulations, set to take effect in a year, could result in hefty fines – up to $50 million – for companies failing to effectively prevent underage access.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, voiced concerns about the rushed legislative process, citing a lack of evidence supporting the claim of a direct causal link between social media use and mental health issues in young Australians. They emphasized the need for thorough consultation to ensure the new rules are both technically feasible and don’t unduly burden parents and teenagers. Meta suggested a simpler age verification system utilizing existing operating system and app store functionalities.
Snapchat, initially concerned about potential exclusion from the bill, echoed Meta’s concerns, highlighting the numerous unanswered questions regarding implementation. They pledged to actively collaborate with the government to find a solution that balances privacy, safety, and practicality.
TikTok also described the government’s approach as rushed, reaffirming their commitment to protecting young users’ safety. They urged collaboration to address the potential unintended consequences of the legislation.
The responses from these tech giants underscore the complexities and challenges involved in regulating the rapidly evolving digital landscape, particularly concerning the protection of children online.
