Australia passes landmark bill seeking social media ban for children under 16

The Senate is expected to discuss the bill later on Wednesday, with the government aiming for its passage by the end of the parliamentary year on Thursday.

The proposed ban on social media for children under 16 was first introduced following a highly emotional parliamentary inquiry, which included testimonies from parents of children who had self-harmed as a result of cyberbullying. This has sparked intense debate, with youth advocates arguing that it denies children a voice, while parent groups contend that minors are too young to safely navigate the online world.

Teenagers have expressed concerns that the law could sever vital social and familial ties, saying that banning social media is not the answer to the issue.