CANBERRA — Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called on social media platforms to prioritize the safety of children after the Senate passed landmark legislation banning those under the age of 16 from using social networking sites.

The new laws, part of the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024, make Australia the first country in the world to impose such restrictions.

Speaking at a news conference in Canberra, Albanese emphasized the responsibility of social media companies to protect young users.

“Social media platforms now have a social responsibility to ensure the safety of our kids is a priority for them,” he said.

The laws, set to take effect by the end of 2025, will prohibit children under 16 from accessing popular platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Reddit, and X (formerly Twitter).

However, platforms will not be allowed to enforce the ban by requiring government identification or digital IDs from users, instead mandating “reasonable alternatives” for age verification.

Companies that fail to comply with the new rules face fines of up to AU$49.5 million ($32 million).

The legislation passed the lower house of Parliament with overwhelming support, garnering 102 votes in favor and just 13 opposed. The Senate followed suit with a vote of 34 to 19.

While the ban targets social media usage, children will still have access to messaging services, online gaming, and educational and health-related platforms. These include apps like Headspace, Kids Helpline, Google Classroom, and YouTube, which are deemed essential for development and well-being.

The government has framed the legislation as a step toward protecting children from online harm while allowing them to maintain access to necessary digital resources. “We want our kids to have a childhood and parents to know we have their backs,” Albanese said, highlighting the aim to create a safer online environment. — Agencies