An Australian Senate committee has endorsed a proposed law banning the use of social media by children under 16, but has recommended against platforms that contain sensitive personal data for age verification, such as passports or passports. A digital ID is required, Reuters Reported
The legislation, backed by Prime Minister Anthony Albany’s Labor government and the opposition Liberal Party, aims to introduce tighter controls on social media use. If approved, Australia will trial a comprehensive age verification system that could potentially include biometrics or government-issued IDs. Among the strictest measures globally, these measures are aimed at ensuring compliance with the new rules.
In its report, the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee emphasized alternatives to aggressive age verification methods and urged the government to consider the outcome of the age verification trial, with a progress report due in September 2025. To come. The committee also stressed its importance. Involving youth, especially marginalized groups in law-making to ensure effective implementation and positive alternatives for youth involvement.
“Young people must be at the center of this conversation to ensure that pathways to connection remain after these restrictions are introduced,” said Senator Karen Grogan, chair of the committee.
The government has been criticized by independent lawmakers for fast-tracking the bill introduced last week. Critics noted the short timeline for the consultation, with submissions closing last Friday and a single hearing on Monday.
Major tech firms including Google, Meta, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) expressed concerns about the bill. Google and Meta called for the ban to be delayed until after the trial, TikTok advocated for further consultation, and X warned that the law could violate children’s rights.
Under the proposed legislation, platforms would face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million) for systemic violations if age verification protections are not properly enforced.