Australia Passes Controversial Social Media Ban for Teens

The new law prohibits social media use for individuals under 16, raising concerns over enforcement, practicality, and broader implications.

The Australian parliament has passed the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act, banning social media use for individuals under 16 years old.
Critics argue the legislation was rushed through without sufficient scrutiny, leaving significant questions about enforcement and platform exemptions unanswered.
Supporters of the law cite the need to address the harms of social media on young people, while opponents highlight potential overreach and digital privacy concerns.
The bill has sparked rare political alignment between opposing parties, though dissenting voices, including the Greens and some right-wing senators, remain divided over its implications.
The legislation coincides with the rise of 'enshittification' as Macquarie Dictionary's Word of the Year, reflecting growing disillusionment with the degradation of online platforms and services.