AUSTRALIA – Australia has become the first country to ban social media access for children under 16, blocking platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Platforms must use age-verification methods such as selfies or bank details to block underage users or face substantial fines.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the policy sets a national standard and is drawing attention from world leaders. The ban aims to protect young children from harmful online content, with a focus on the connection between social media and youth mental health.
Many are curious about the potential impact if such a ban were to occur in the United States. NonStop Local’s Ainsley Anderson spoke with local influencer “Ghoulz” and a parent, Jason O’Fallon, to gather their reactions.
Ghoulz, a Spokane native and YouTuber with over 3 million followers, expressed disappointment over the ban’s impact on his Australian fans.
“My goal is to change the entire world with my platform and so it’s really disappointing because I think social media, although there is a lot of bad stuff on it, there’s so much good that comes from it,” he said.
O’Fallon, a parent, shared mixed feelings about the ban. While he agrees with the intent to protect children, he recognizes the positive aspects of social media.
“But it’s like as a new parent, I’m probably going to want to look into that, you know when my kids are old enough,” he said.
He also mentioned that his young son enjoys watching family-friendly YouTube content.
In the United States, similar legislation is under consideration by the Senate. If passed, it would remove children 13 and under from these platforms. O’Fallon noted that his perspective might change as his child grows older.
“I think right now I would probably agree with it. But ask me again in five years, my kid’s a little bit older and asking about it. Yeah. You know, there might be some pushback there as well,” he said.
For many Australian kids accustomed to connecting with friends on Snapchat or Instagram, the ban means they will need to find new ways to stay in touch.
