A new regulation mandating certain social media companies to restrict access for Australian users under 16 will be implemented starting December 10, just a month from today.
Addressing the media outside parliament, Prime Minister Albanese defended the groundbreaking legislation as a necessary step.
“This initiative is about preserving childhood and giving parents the tools to engage in meaningful conversations with their kids,” he stated to reporters.
“While we acknowledge that the execution of these laws may not be flawless, we firmly believe this sets a clear expectation from the Australian government,” Albanese continued.
He emphasized, “We are reminding social media companies of their societal obligations and the importance of maintaining their social licence, similar to any other industry.”
As anticipated, the legislation has sparked opposition from global tech giants affected by the ban. Additionally, there has been domestic criticism regarding the selection of sites included and a perceived lack of clarity about the impending changes.
Communications Minister Anika Wells defended the implementation of what she called a “world-leading” reform, saying there had been a 20-fold increase in traffic to the eSafety website since the launch of a national education campaign three weeks ago.
“Our social media laws are not a cure, but they are a treatment plan,” she said.Â
“We want children to have their childhood and we want parents to have peace of mind.Â
“This reform will not just change a law. It will change a generation.
“We know this law will not be perfect, but it is too important not to have a crack.”
She added that social media companies have to communicate with their users about the ban before it comes into effect, although admitted exactly when that communication happens hasn’t been set.
“Perhaps in the week leading up to 10 December,” she said.
