The United Kingdom is moving forward with plans to introduce an Australia-style ban on social media for children under 16, following the world-first legislation passed in Australia late last year. The proposed UK law, announced by the government, aims to restrict access to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat for younger users, citing concerns over mental health and online safety.
Australia's Landmark Legislation
Australia's Social Media Minimum Age Bill, passed in November 2024, requires platforms to take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from having accounts. The law imposes fines of up to AUD 50 million for non-compliance. According to the Australian government, the legislation is designed to protect young people from harmful content, cyberbullying, and excessive screen time.
Since the law came into effect, tech companies have been scrambling to implement age verification systems. Some platforms have introduced AI-based age estimation tools, while others rely on government ID checks. However, the rollout has faced challenges, including privacy concerns and technical difficulties. A spokesperson for the Australian eSafety Commissioner said, 'We are working closely with industry to ensure compliance while respecting user privacy.'
UK's Proposed Approach
The UK government has indicated it will model its ban on Australia's framework, but with some modifications. Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said, 'We are watching Australia closely and learning from their experience. Our priority is to create a safe online environment for children without overburdening businesses.' The UK's Online Safety Act already imposes duties on platforms to protect under-18s, but the new measures would go further by setting a minimum age for social media access.
Critics argue that the ban may be difficult to enforce and could drive children to less regulated spaces. The UK-based children's charity 5Rights Foundation said, 'A blanket ban risks excluding young people from positive online communities. We need a nuanced approach that balances safety with participation.'
Implementation and Challenges
Both countries face similar hurdles. Age verification remains a key issue, with no universally accepted method. Privacy advocates warn that mandatory ID checks could create surveillance risks. In Australia, a trial of age verification technology is underway, with results expected later this year. The UK plans to consult on its own technical standards before introducing legislation.
Industry reaction has been mixed. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, said it supports regulatory frameworks but called for 'proportionate and interoperable' solutions. TikTok stated it already has robust safety measures for younger users and urged governments to collaborate on global standards.
According to a survey by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, 67% of parents support the ban, while 45% of teens reported finding ways to bypass restrictions. The UK government is studying this data to refine its approach. 'We want to get this right,' Frazer added. 'There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but we are committed to protecting children.'
