Google and Meta have called on the Australian government to delay the passage of a controversial bill that would impose a social media ban for children under 16, citing the need for further evaluation of its impact. The bill, introduced last week by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s center-left government, proposes some of the strictest measures globally on children’s social media use and is slated for parliamentary approval by Thursday.
The legislation mandates social media platforms, rather than parents or children, to enforce age-verification protocols. Non-compliance could result in fines of up to AUD 49.5 million ($32 million). However, the tech giants argue that without completing an age-verification trial, which could involve biometrics or government ID, the implications of the law remain unclear.
Meta criticized the bill as “inconsistent and ineffective,” warning that its current form lacks clarity and feasibility. Google echoed similar concerns, urging a more deliberate approach to understand the scale of the proposed measures.
TikTok, owned by China’s Bytedance, also expressed reservations, stating the bill lacked detailed consultation with experts, mental health advocates, and young users. “Where novel policy is proposed, thorough and considered legislation is critical. This has not been the case,” TikTok asserted.
Elon Musk’s X raised human rights concerns, arguing the bill could infringe on children’s rights to free expression and access to information. Musk, a vocal advocate of free speech, denounced the legislation as a potential “backdoor” for internet control.
Some independent MPs questioned the hurried procedure, which allowed only one day for public contributions, even though the opposition Liberal Party is anticipated to support the bill. Stakeholders are calling for a more cautious approach to ensure the legislation accomplishes its goals without unforeseen effects, and the Senate communications committee is scheduled to submit its findings on the bill on Tuesday.
$1 is equivalent to 1.5454 Australian dollars.