The Albanese Labor Government will introduce legislation this year to enforce a minimum age for access to social media and other relevant digital platforms.
A Commonwealth-led approach to this important social issue will ensure Australian children are better protected from online harms and parents and carers are supported.
Federal legislation will be informed by engagement with States and Territories through National Cabinet and draw upon recent work by former Chief Justice, Robert French.
It also builds upon the Albanese Government’s work to address online harms for young people. In particular, the $6.5 million age assurance trial which is testing different implementation approaches to help inform policy design.
Quotes attributable to the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese
“We know social media is causing social harm, and it is taking kids away from real friends and real experiences.
“Australian young people deserve better and I stand with them and with all Australian parents in protecting our kids.
“The safety and mental and physical health of our young people is paramount.
“We’re supporting parents and keeping kids safe by taking this action, because enough is enough.”
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland
“As a mother of young daughters, and Minister for Communications, I fully understand concerns around harmful online environments and addictive social media behaviour of children.
“Parents want real solutions and we are taking decisive action to identify and implement these very solutions to help ensure young people can use the internet in a safe and positive way that supports their learning and their lives.
“We are also holding big tech to account because platforms and online services have a key responsibility for the safety of their users.
“We will continue to engage experts, young people, advocates and parents through the age assurance trial which is an important aspect of this journey.”