Australian Social Media Age Ban: Will the Age Limit Be Set Under 13.5 Years?

The Australian federal government has announced plans to introduce legislation by the end of 2022 that would impose a minimum age limit for using social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. But what will the cut-off age actually be?

What is the Proposed Social Media Age Ban?

The push to restrict social media access for children comes after the South Australian government proposed banning children 13 years and under from social media, with threats of fines for non-compliant companies. This follows the federal Coalition’s announcement in June of seeking a bipartisan deal to impose an age limit. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stated a preference for a “higher limit” than the 14-16 years proposed range. The final age limit will be revealed once the government completes trials of age verification technology.

Will the Australian government set the social media age ban limit under 13.5 years? 22bet.com currently lists odds of 1.83/1 and a percentage chance of 54.6% that this will be the case.  

How Will the Age Ban be Enforced?

The legislation will give the government power to enforce an age limit once the verification technology trials are finished. Currently, social media platforms only require users to confirm they meet the minimum age by checking a box. The trials are testing more robust tools to verify age, which could prevent children from accessing social media accounts. The government will consult with social media companies as part of the trial process.

What are the Aims of the Social Media Age Ban?

Proponents of the ban argue it is needed to protect children’s safety and well-being. Prime Minister Albanese stated that social media is detracting from “real-life experiences with friends and family”, while South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said social media is “causing harm” to kids. Advocates say age limits, like those on cigarettes and alcohol, are necessary when a product or service damages children.

What Evidence Supports Restricting Social Media Use?

A national cabinet review found children’s access to free online pornography has normalized aggressive and degrading behaviors. Researchers say social media can be addictive for kids and negatively impact mental health. South Australian Premier Malinauskas argues early social media access is as dangerous as cigarettes and alcohol.

What are the Counter Arguments and Concerns?

Critics argue compulsory age verification raises serious privacy issues. Some experts believe platforms will find ways to circumvent age limits, making the legislation ineffective. There are also concerns that government-mandated age verification will require collecting intrusive personal data that parents would prefer platforms not access.

Could There be Unintended Consequences?

A blanket age ban risks pushing teenage social media use underground and onto unregulated platforms. Teenagers may resort to fake birthdates to create accounts, meaning they lose access to a platform’s safety features. There are also concerns teenagers could miss out on social media’s benefits like connection with peers, self-expression and access to support networks.

The impending age limit legislation has sparked vigorous debate on both sides. While a ban aims to protect children, its effectiveness remains uncertain. The government’s challenge will be finding a solution that balances safety with concerns over privacy and paternalism. The final age chosen will be pivotal in determining whether the laws are a success or failure.