Australias Communications Minister Anika Wells told the BBC she is unfazed by opposition from major technology firms to the countrys new social media restrictions and is prepared for potential criticism from Washington.
Beginning 10 December, ten major platforms including Snapchat, Meta, TikTok and YouTube must take what the government describes as reasonable measures to prevent users under the age of 16 from creating accounts. Wells emphasized that the government is standing with parents rather than tech companies.
Although companies such as Meta have acknowledged the need for stronger protections for young users, many argue a ban is not the best solution. Some specialists have echoed these concerns. Speaking in Brisbane, Wells said platforms have had 15 to 20 years to respond to evidence indicating their services cause harm.
She said she feels a moral responsibility to act, strengthened by conversations with parents whose children have experienced online harm. According to Wells, governments worldwide have contacted Australia for guidance, viewing the policy as a model.
While former US President Donald Trump has previously pledged to defend American tech firms from international action, Wells said both the White House and Congress are entitled to scrutinize Australias approach. She added that her government remains focused on serving the public interest.
Wells also noted that technology companies have reason to worry the Australian policy may inspire similar laws abroad. She argued that if a platforms design puts lives at risk, policymakers should intervene.
The legislation, while popular, has faced criticism. Some experts believe enhanced parental controls, stronger safeguards and improved digital education might have been more effective. Other places have attempted similar measures with limited success, prompting concerns about enforceability. In the US, several states have seen comparable laws blocked in court. In Australia, two teenagers recently challenged the ban in the High Court, arguing it undermines childrens rights.
One of the most frequently cited shortcomings is the exclusion of online gaming platforms, which some parents and safety researchers also consider harmful. Roblox, in particular, has been highlighted as a concern. Wells said the e-Safety Commissioner is monitoring Roblox closely, and noted the platform has already begun making safety improvements.
The government plans to review the policy over the next two years. Wells described it as an evolving treatment plan rather than a complete solution and warned that implementation may be uneven but ultimately beneficial.
Drawing a comparison to Australias alcohol laws for minors, she said imperfect compliance does not negate the value of establishing protections based on public health evidence.
Wells, who has three young children, said managing devices and social media at home is challenging, especially with her frequent travel. She added that many parents have expressed gratitude for the legislation, saying it gives them an additional tool to safeguard their children since algorithms cannot be parented.
