Analysis

Worried about the social media ban for kids? Read this

The pioneering age-limit laws are set to be approved by the Senate on Thursday. Here’s what we know (and just as importantly what we don’t know) about how they will work.

Paul SmithTechnology editor

Nov 28, 2024 – 11.24am

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Australia is set to become the first country to ban social media for children under the age of 16, after the House of Representatives passed the bill on Wednesday, before a likely Senate vote on Thursday.

If it becomes law this week, platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, X and Reddit will have a year to comply or face fines of up to $50 million.

Paul Smith edits the technology coverage and has been a leading writer on the sector for 20 years. He covers big tech, business use of tech, the fast-growing Australian tech industry and start-ups, telecommunications and national innovation policy.