Australia’s Senate is deliberating a bill that would prohibit children under 16 from using social media, following its passage in the House of Representatives.
Supporters, including Opposition Senator Maria Kovacic, argue the bill is crucial, urging social media companies to take stronger action to prevent underage users. Kovacic criticized these companies for prioritizing profit over children’s safety, stating, “This is a responsibility they should have been fulfilling long ago.”
However, critics like Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young argue that the bill is more about political posturing than genuine child protection, accusing lawmakers of misleading the public. Others believe the measure could undermine parental authority and push children toward less-regulated online spaces like the dark web.
Despite the controversy, the bill is expected to pass in the Senate.
