Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese showcased his government’s world-first teen social media ban during an event in New York, highlighting the growing challenges posed by digital platforms for children.
Speaking at the Protecting Children in the Digital Age event on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Albanese stressed that the law, while not flawless, marked a crucial step toward safeguarding young people.
Starting this December, Australia will become the first country to bar children under 16 from using social media platforms. The move will raise the current age restriction from 13 to 16, effectively delaying the age at which teenagers can create accounts.
The legislation, passed in November 2024, was introduced following research showing the negative impact of excessive social media use on mental health, including exposure to misinformation, cyberbullying, and unhealthy body image portrayals.
Albanese described the measure as a sensible and long-overdue initiative, intended to grant teens “three more years of being shaped by real-life experience, not algorithms.” He added that while no system could entirely eliminate risks, the ban would provide children with greater protection at a critical developmental stage.
The move has drawn international attention. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Australia’s decision, calling it an inspiration for Europe. “We in Europe are watching and will be learning from you,” she said, urging global leaders to take responsibility for protecting the next generation from the dangers of unregulated digital exposure.
Governments and technology companies worldwide are closely monitoring Australia’s approach as it could set a precedent for similar policies elsewhere.
Albanese acknowledged that the challenge of regulating online platforms is constantly evolving, but reiterated that his government’s priority is the health and wellbeing of young Australians in an increasingly digital world.
