Google and Meta are asking the Australian government to delay a proposed bill. The bill aims to ban children under 13 from using social media. The two tech companies raised concerns about the impact of the new rules. They also asked for more time to discuss changes.
The bill is part of Australia’s Online Safety Act. It requires social media platforms to verify users’ ages. The goal is to stop children from signing up. Platforms must also get parental consent for users under 18. The government says the law will protect children from harm online. It plans to introduce this bill in early 2025.
Concerns Raised by Google and Meta
Google and Meta say the law could have unintended effects. They believe it might block access to important online resources. Many children use social media to connect with friends and learn new things. Restricting access could hurt their ability to grow and communicate.
Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, said age-verification systems are hard to create. The company argued these systems could affect user privacy. Collecting sensitive data, like IDs or birth certificates, could make platforms a target for hackers.
Google, which owns YouTube, shared similar concerns. It warned the rules could reduce internet access for families. They pointed out that some parents rely on online platforms for their children’s education and entertainment.
Industry Asks for More Time
Both companies said they support keeping children safe online. However, they believe the current proposal moves too fast. They want the government to work with the tech industry to find better solutions. Google and Meta have asked for more time to test new technologies for age verification.
Meta suggested a phased approach to the law. This means rolling out parts of the law gradually, instead of all at once. They say this would help companies make safer systems.
Why the Law Is Controversial
The proposed law has started a big debate in Australia. Supporters say the rules will protect children from bullying, harmful content, and online predators. They also argue that social media platforms should do more to make their spaces safe for kids.
Critics, however, think the law might be too strict. Some worry it could stop young people from accessing educational resources. Others are concerned about privacy risks from collecting personal information. Smaller tech companies also fear the rules could hurt their business. They might not have the money to build the required systems.
Reactions from Parents and Experts
Many parents welcome the idea of tighter controls on social media. They worry about their children being exposed to harmful content. Some say the law is necessary to keep kids safe in the digital world.
However, privacy experts are divided. Some believe age verification is essential, but others warn it could lead to data misuse. Professor Julian Rimmer, a cybersecurity expert, said, “The law’s goals are good, but the execution needs careful planning. Collecting personal data, especially from children, creates serious risks.”
What Happens Next?
The Australian government says it will continue working on the bill. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland said the government will listen to all sides. She promised to ensure the law balances safety, privacy, and access.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, also supports the proposal. She said children face more risks online now than ever before. “We need stronger rules to protect kids,” she explained.
But tech companies and other critics will keep pushing for changes. If the law passes as it is, Australia could set a global example. Other countries might follow with similar rules. This raises questions about the future of online platforms worldwide.
The debate over the proposed law shows the challenges of balancing safety, privacy, and access in the digital age. Both sides agree on the need to protect children. But how to do it remains a big question. As the discussion continues, it is clear that governments, companies, and families must work together. The goal is to create a safer and fairer internet for everyone.
