News
Australia doubles penalties for tech firms’ non-compliance
Australia boosts penalties for tech firms flouting social media ban for under-16s amid rising concerns over youth online safety
Australia boosts penalties for tech firms flouting social media ban for under-16s amid rising concerns over youth online safety
– Australia plans to double penalties for tech firms ignoring the social media ban for children under 16.
– The eSafety Commissioner will gain expanded powers to enforce compliance and require evidence from companies.
New penalties introduced
The maximum penalty will increase to A$99 million ($68 million) from A$49.5 million for systemic violations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that big tech companies are not doing enough to comply with the law, noting over 5 million accounts have been deactivated since the ban.
Australia’s six-month-old ban is attracting international attention, with the UK considering similar restrictions that include gaming and live-streaming platforms.
Despite the ban, many children continue to evade age checks, prompting concerns over their safety online.
A recent study indicated that 85% of Australians aged 12 to 15 are still active on social media, often by falsely declaring their age.
Anika Wells, Minister for Communications, remarked that social media platforms are minimally enforcing the ban, citing ineffective age validation tools.
The planned amendments will empower the eSafety Commissioner to obtain information from third-party age-assurance providers as well.
A timeline for parliament discussion of these amendments has not yet been established.
Separately, the website Reddit is challenging the ban in court, arguing a violation of free speech rights.
