Australian Law to Ban Under-16s from Social Media Begins December 10

Mia Bannister has transformed her grief into advocacy, pushing for groundbreaking legislation in Australia that will ban children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms. This law, effective from December 10, 2023, mandates that sites like Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and TikTok must keep minors off their platforms. Companies failing to comply face significant penalties of up to $32 million. Bannister’s motivation stems from the tragic loss of her teenage son, Ollie, who took his own life after struggling with anorexia and enduring online bullying.

In an emotional interview with AFP, Mia reflected on her relationship with Ollie, describing him as “my best friend” and “my world.” She has inscribed a eulogy to him on her skin, depicting a mother holding a cracked red heart, symbolizing her enduring love and loss. Mia believes that had this legislation been in place a year ago, Ollie might still be alive. She recalls how social media contributed to his struggles, exposing him to harmful content that exacerbated his condition.

As a single parent, Mia faced the challenge of working full time while trying to understand the digital landscape her son was navigating. She expressed frustration with social media companies, stating, “It is their platforms and the unfiltered, unchecked content,” implying that they bear responsibility for the consequences of their networks on vulnerable youth.

Legislative Goals and Challenges

The Australian government aims to alter children’s online behavior to foster a safer digital environment while not completely removing them from the internet. Recent statistics from a survey conducted by Mission Australia reveal that approximately 97 percent of teens use social media daily, with nearly half spending three or more hours online. The survey also indicated that those who limited their social media use to less than three hours reported better overall well-being.

Despite the intentions behind the law, questions remain about its enforcement, particularly concerning age verification methods. Some major platforms, such as Discord, Pinterest, Roblox, LEGO Play, and WhatsApp, are not included in the initial ban, although Australian authorities retain the authority to extend restrictions as needed. Critics, including experts from the University of Sydney, caution that blanket bans may not effectively ensure safety. Catherine Page Jeffery, a lecturer in Media and Communications, noted, “I don’t think that this is the right approach to online safety,” suggesting that it could push children toward more dangerous online environments.

The Impact on Young Users

For many children, social media serves as an essential tool for self-expression and skill development. Twelve-year-old Ava Chanel Jones utilizes Instagram to showcase her talents in cheerleading, dancing, and modeling—activities that blossomed during the pandemic with her mother’s support. With a following of over 11,400, Ava has started to earn from her social media presence, receiving brand partnerships and even launching her own clothing line. Her mother, Zoe, emphasizes the importance of parental oversight, stating, “It’s my responsibility to protect her the best that I can when she’s on social media.”

As the December 10 deadline approaches, Ava may find her access to her account restricted due to the new legislation. Like many parents, Zoe is uncertain about how the law will be implemented and what alternatives will remain for children seeking to explore new interests.

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, supports the new age restrictions as a “really potent solution” to curb online harm. However, she acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to ensuring children’s safety online.

Mia Bannister continues to honor her son’s memory by advocating for awareness around eating disorders in boys and the implications of social media legislation. She stated, “I do it for him, and I do it for all the other children out there: the lost children and the ones that we’re all going to save.” Her story underscores the complex interplay between safeguarding youth and fostering their digital growth in an increasingly interconnected world.