Credit: Sharon Givoni
What Website Owners Need to Know About New Social Media Age Rules
New Social Media Age Limit Rules
Imagine a world where social media companies are required to protect their youngest users, taking real steps instead of making empty promises. This is the aim of the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024.
The new law sets the minimum age for social media accounts at 16, making platforms—not parents—responsible for ensuring compliance. If they fail, they could face massive fines.
Influencers Like Eugenia Cooney
Eugenia Cooney, a well-known Instagram influencer, is an example of why better online rules are needed. With over 689,000 followers, she often posts content that many believe promotes unhealthy body standards. Her posts are even used as “thinspiration” in pro-anorexia online groups, which glorify dangerous behaviours. Despite public complaints and petitions to remove her content, platforms allow it because it keeps users engaged. This highlights the need for stronger regulations, which this new Bill aims to address.
Why Is This Bill Important?
Research shows that two-thirds of Aussie teens aged 14 to 17 encounter harmful content online. This includes material about self-harm, drug use, and violence. Excessive social media use is also linked to poor mental health, anxiety, and sleep problems, particularly for younger teens.
This new law makes Australia one of the first countries in the world to set strict age limits without exceptions for parental permission or existing accounts.
Age Verification
Platforms like Facebook and TikTok must use reliable methods to confirm users are over 16. This could include checking government-issued ID or using biometric scans.
Privacy Protection
Any data collected for age verification must be deleted once it’s no longer needed and cannot be reused without user consent.
These rules fit within Australia’s Privacy Act 1988, ensuring both safety and privacy are prioritised.
The Benefits of Age Limits
The law aims to create a safer online space by reducing harmful exposure for kids and teens. Studies show that social media use at an early age can have a negative impact on mental health, especially for girls aged 11–13 and boys aged 14–15.
Concerns About Accessibility
Critics argue that the age limit could block young people from accessing helpful resources. For example, platforms like Headspace offer mental health support, and YouTube is widely used for learning. However, the government believes that protecting kids from harmful content is more important than these trade-offs.
What Happens If Platforms Don’t Comply?
Social media companies could face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million for breaking the rules. If they misuse data collected for age checks, the fines could go as high as AUD 50 million.
The eSafety Commissioner will oversee enforcement, making sure platforms follow the rules and meet privacy requirements.
What This Means for Businesses
If you work in social media, here are some steps to get ready:
- Audit Your Systems: Check your age-verification processes and privacy protections for gaps.
- Upgrade Technology: Invest in tools that meet the new legal standards.
- Get Legal Advice: Consult with experts to ensure compliance and avoid fines.
- Plan Ahead: Stay informed about global trends to future-proof your business.
How Sharon Givoni Consulting Can Help
This new law creates challenges, but also opportunities for businesses to improve their practices. Our team can help you:
- Understand and implement the required age-verification measures.
- Protect user data to comply with privacy laws.
- Avoid costly fines and reputational damage.
- By acting now, you can not only meet your legal obligations but also show that you prioritise user safety.
FAQs
What does the new law do?
It sets a minimum age of 16 for social media accounts and requires platforms to verify users’ ages.
Why is this age limit needed?
To reduce the exposure of young people to harmful content online and protect their mental health.
What happens if a platform doesn’t follow the rules?
They could face fines of up to AUD 49.5 million or more for serious breaches.
How will data be protected during age verification?
All data collected must be deleted after use and cannot be reused without consent.
How can Sharon Givoni Consulting help?
We provide expert legal advice to help businesses comply with the law and avoid penalties.
Contact Sharon Givoni Consulting today to ensure your business is prepared for these changes. Don’t wait—get compliant now to avoid fines and safeguard your reputation!
Please note the above article is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice.
Please email us info@iplegal.com.au if you need legal advice about your brand or another legal matter in this area generally.