Ara City Radio

Australia has passed a controversial law banning social media access for children under 16, requiring tech giants like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to enforce the restriction or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million). A trial to implement age-verification methods, potentially involving biometrics or government ID, will begin in January, with the ban set to take effect in one year. While the law has faced opposition from privacy advocates and some child rights groups, 77% of Australians support it, according to recent polls. The parliamentary inquiry that led to the legislation heard testimonies from parents of children who self-harmed due to social media bullying. Domestic media outlets, including Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, have backed the ban with campaigns like "Let Them Be Kids." Australia’s move is part of a broader global trend, with other countries considering similar restrictions. The bill is seen as a test case for governments grappling with the mental health impacts of social media on