New Laws Set Minimum Age for Social Media Accounts
The Albanese Government has enacted legislation to set a minimum age of 16 years for social media users, delivering stronger protections for young Australians. Passed by Parliament, the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 requires platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to prevent users under 16 from creating accounts.
The law holds social media platforms accountable for compliance, imposing fines of up to $49.5 million for systemic breaches. Privacy safeguards mandate platforms destroy data used for age verification, with penalties under the Privacy Act for non-compliance.
Exemptions allow continued access to educational and health platforms such as Google Classroom and Kids Helpline. Importantly, Australians will not be forced to use government identification for age assurance, with platforms required to provide alternative methods.
Developed in consultation with parents, young people, and experts, the bill aims to address the challenges of evolving technology. Social media platforms have up to 12 months to implement systems to comply with the new laws, reflecting a government commitment to user safety and platform accountability.
pm.gov.au