The ban on the use of social networks, which will affect popular platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Reddit, and X, is aimed at protecting children from online bullying, misinformation, and inappropriate content. However, it does not extend to messaging apps like WhatsApp, email services, online games, and educational resources.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that this law will create a healthier environment for children and give parents confidence in their children's safety online, and it may serve as an example for other countries.
Platforms that do not comply with this ban may face severe fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars (approximately 33 million USD or nearly 30 million euros).
However, critics of this government decision express concerns about its severity and have already filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court. They believe that teenagers will simply find alternative platforms that are harder to regulate.
Some other countries, such as Malaysia, Denmark, and Norway, are also considering implementing similar measures, and the European Parliament has already expressed support for such restrictions.
