Topic: 2025 – Protecting and Empowering Youth in Digital Spaces
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Kamryn Khan
The proliferation of social media platforms presents both opportunities and significant risks for young people. Australia recognizes that children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable in digital environments, facing threats such as cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and detrimental impacts on mental health. To address these challenges, Australia has enacted robust measures aimed at protecting and empowering youth online.
Australia has recently passed legislation that bans access to social media for individuals under the age of 16. This action is grounded in research demonstrating the negative effects of social media on youth mental health and well-being. The ban will take effect in December 2025, following the legislation’s passage on November 29, 2024.
Key provisions of the legislation include
Under-16 Ban: Children under the age of 16 are prohibited from accessing defined social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Implementation Date: December 10, 2025.
Purpose: To protect children under 16 from the harms of social media, such as cyberbullying and harmful content.
Enforcement: Platforms in violation face fines of up to AUD $50 million.
Australia’s policy is supported by compelling research indicating that social media can negatively impact young people’s mental health. By restricting access, Australia aims to reduce these risks and foster environments conducive to healthy development and well-being.
Australia encourages all countries to adopt similar guidelines and laws to safeguard young people globally. Collective action is essential to ensure that digital spaces are safe and supportive for the next generation.
Australia remains committed to leading in the protection and empowerment of youth in the digital age.
Purpose: To protect children under 16 from the harms of social media, such as cyberbullying and harmful content
Penalty for Platforms: Fines of up to AUD $50 million for failing to comply with the law
Affected Platforms: The ban applies to platforms defined as social media, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
Australia believes that regulating social media platforms and not allowing youth access to social media spaces until the age of 16 will help improve their mental health and overall well-being. Australia encourages all countries to establish similar guidelines and laws to protect young people worldwide.
