Children and teenagers are facing a social media ban by the end of next year in a controversial move aimed at protecting mental health. The legislation, passed with bipartisan support, will block those under 16 from platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Some MPs expressed concerns about rushed laws, while mental health experts had mixed opinions during a Senate inquiry. Companies failing to keep young people off their sites could be fined $50 million under the new laws. Despite arguments for benefits of online connection, the ban is seen as necessary to prevent harm to youth. Some exceptions apply, such as messaging apps and educational sites.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-28/social-media-age-ban-passes-parliament/104647138