Australia has imposed a social media ban for children aged under 16, becoming the first country to pass such a law. The law, which has emerged after an intense and emotional national debate, sets a tough precedent, which will prevent Meta (Facebook and Instagram) and TikTok from allowing children below 16 to login to their platforms or they may face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million). The ban will be enforced after a trial period beginning in January, with the law fully taking effect in a year.
Social media can severely impact the mental health of children as demonstrated by several health studies done over the years. However, a few against the ban opined it would deprive young teens from exploring their passions through social media and restrict a creative outlet.
