Australia Considers Age Restriction for Social Media Amid Health Concerns

Australia plans to establish a minimum age limit for children's social media use due to health concerns, prompting criticism from digital rights advocates. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's government will trial age verification before enforcing the law. The announcement follows reports of social media's negative impact on teenagers' mental health.

Australia is set to introduce a minimum age limit for children's use of social media, citing concerns about the mental and physical health impacts. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's center-left government plans to run an age verification trial prior to enacting the age minimum laws later this year.

Although Albanese did not specify an exact age, he hinted it could range from 14 to 16. He expressed a desire to see children engage in physical activities instead of excessive screen time. This move would position Australia as one of the first countries to enforce such regulations on social media usage.

However, this decision has not been without controversy. Digital rights advocates warn that it could drive dangerous online activities underground. Australia's eSafety Commissioner and other stakeholders have raised concerns about the potential unintended consequences of restricting younger users, such as limiting access to essential support and pushing them to less regulated online platforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)