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Australian Senate approved this Thursday a bill that prohibits the use of social networks by persons under 16 years of age, a final procedure that makes this country the first in the world to introduce measures of this type for the sake of psychological and social well-being of minors.

The measure has support of the main parties, who managed to carry out this process before the start of the parliamentary recess period and despite the doubts that some legislators expressed about reform, which will come into force in a year. The House of Representatives already voted on it on Wednesday.

The text suggests fines up to AUD 50 million (about 30.8 million euros) for companies that do not comply with this new age limitin the absence indicate which specific networks or portals will be affected. The government has ruled out the possibility of punishing users.

#Australia Plan advances to prohibit access to social media for those under 16 years of age.

The House of Representatives approved the bill, which is expected to be ratified this week. This measure provides for large fines for platforms. /is pic.twitter.com/X3898p83Oe

— DW Español (@dw_espanol) November 27, 2024

Some of the companies expected to be hit criticized the lack of specifics, while the social network’s ownerElon Musk, This is the form control Internet access “through the back door” all Australian citizens.

Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albaneseis among those who have publicly defended the ban, emphasizing, among other things, that it unprecedented reform worldwide.

Social media is hurting our children and I’m going to stop it. I want Australian parents and families to know that the government has their back.

(Europe Press)