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Australia Says It Will Toughen Its Social Media Ban for Children
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- The Australian government plans to strengthen its law banning children under 16 from major social media platforms, acknowledging the initial law's limited effectiveness since its December implementation.
- Despite millions of accounts being deactivated, about 70% of parents reported their children under 16 still have social media accounts, and researchers found many young teens continue using these platforms.
- The government will double the maximum fine for tech companies violating the law to approximately $70 million and increase the online safety regulator’s authority to demand compliance information.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the seriousness of enforcing the law, criticizing big tech companies for insufficient compliance, while Communications Minister Anika Wells accused them of doing the bare minimum to evade responsibilities.
