Australia Plans to Kick Kids Off Social Media

Australian leaders have a big plan. They want to stop kids under 16 from using popular social media sites like X, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. This isn't just one state, but the whole country! Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calls it a world-first. He thinks these sites are hurting young Australians. But why 16? They've been talking about it for months, considering ages 14 to 16. Tasmania wanted 14, but they're okay with 16 to keep things uniform. The law will hit Parliament in two weeks and take effect a year later, giving platforms time to figure out how to block kids. Privacy is a concern, so they'll take time to sort that out too. Some people aren't happy about this. The Greens party worries it'll stop future activists like Sweden's Greta Thunberg. Over 140 experts signed a letter saying this isn't the best way to protect kids. They think tech-savvy teens will find ways around it. Some fear it'll cause family fights and push problems underground. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, says parental controls in app stores would be better. The government thinks this is like alcohol laws. Kids still drink, but it's banned for them. Professor Lisa Given from RMIT University isn't sure. She thinks kids need social support to use these platforms safely. Professor Tama Leaver from Curtin University thinks taking away access could harm kids who've already built online spaces. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland says kids can still use online education and health services. The law will also protect privacy. This isn't just about harm. It's about balance, says Rowland. They want to protect kids but also let them use these platforms for good. YouTube might be included, but YouTube Kids could be exempt. Gaming and messaging services won't be restricted. It's a big change, and there are lots of questions.