Australia plans social media ban for users under 16 with hefty fines for noncompliance

The Albanese government plans to introduce a bill that would ban social media platforms for users under 16, including X, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Companies that do not comply could face fines of up to $50 million. The bill has support from the Coalition, which previously proposed a similar ban. However, concerns have been raised by civil liberties groups and some lawmakers about the impact on teens' social connections and the effectiveness of the proposed measures. Details on how the ban will be enforced are still unclear. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized the need for strong penalties for companies that violate the law.