Proposed Legislation Sets Social Media Minimum Age at 16
Australia’s National Cabinet has agreed on new social media regulations, supporting a minimum access age of 16 to safeguard young Australians from the potential harms of social media. This proposal, aimed at giving parents more tools to protect their children, follows earlier Cabinet discussions and builds on a $6.5 million investment for a pilot program focused on age verification to shield youth from harmful online content.
The legislation also aligns with the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022–2032, marking a step toward eliminating gender-based violence. This law is expected to take effect at least 12 months after it receives Royal Assent, with the Federal Parliament expected to review it before the end of the year.
This decision, endorsed by all First Ministers, represents a significant government effort to enhance online safety for children and strengthen community well-being.
Source pm.gov.au/
